Robert T. Paine

Robert T. Paine was an American ecologist best known for his work on ecological relationships, particularly his experiments on predator-prey dynamics. He conducted a famous study on the rocky coast of Washington State, where he removed sea otters from certain areas and observed the impact on ecosystems. His research demonstrated that predators play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by controlling prey populations and supporting biodiversity. Paine's work introduced the concept of the "keystone species," highlighting how one species can significantly influence the stability and structure of an entire ecosystem.