Angela K.

To be a keystone species, a species has to have a disappropriate effect on the ecosystem. As humans, I do believe that we are noted as a keystone species. Our existence on Earth has become a large part of it as a whole, and in many different ways. We use/deplete numerous resources that the Earth provides, and therefore affect the lives of the amount numerous amount of species that we coexist with. We play an important role in maintaining our ecological community, as well as constantly changing it. We have declared this dominance over the years, and through this authority we have caused the Earth to evolve, and this evolution has been directed to benefit us. However, Paine does provide an accountable point about plants and trees. Without them, we as humans, could not exist. There would be less animal habitat and supply of oxygen. Huge quantities of animals would have no way to survive. Therefore, yes we as humans are a keystone species, but I feel as if plants and trees, or even microbiological world effect us a great deal more.