Robert Paine

Robert Paine was an influential American ecologist, best known for his research on the role of predators in ecosystems. He introduced the concept of the "keystone species," referring to a species that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment compared to its abundance. Paine's groundbreaking work, particularly with sea stars, highlighted how removing a keystone species can lead to drastic changes in an ecosystem, demonstrating the interconnectedness of species. His insights have significantly shaped our understanding of biodiversity and conservation, emphasizing the importance of protecting key species to maintain ecological balance.