trophic cascade

A trophic cascade is an ecological process where changes at one level of the food chain ripple through others, affecting the entire ecosystem. For example, when predators like wolves are removed from an area, their prey (such as deer) may overpopulate, leading to overgrazing and habitat degradation for plants and smaller animals. Conversely, reintroducing predators can restore balance, controlling prey numbers and allowing plant life to recover. This interconnected chain reaction showcases how each species plays a vital role in maintaining healthy, functioning ecosystems.