In rocky Intertidal communities removal of which of the following predator became the cause of extinction of 10 species of invertebrates?

Options

A. Abingdon tortoise
B. Monarch butterfly
C. Pisaster starfish
D. Calotropis

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question:**
The question asks about the removal of a predator species in rocky intertidal communities that led to the extinction of 10 invertebrate species.

2. **Identifying the Key Predator:**
In rocky intertidal ecosystems, certain species play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. One such key predator is the Pisaster starfish.

3. **Role of the Pisaster Starfish:**
The Pisaster starfish is known to be a keystone species in these communities. It primarily preys on mussels, specifically the species Mytilus californianus. By controlling the population of mussels, the starfish helps maintain biodiversity among other invertebrate species.

4. **Impact of Removing the Pisaster Starfish:**
When the Pisaster starfish was removed from the ecosystem, it led to an overpopulation of mussels. This overpopulation resulted in the decline and eventual extinction of more than 10 invertebrate species within a year due to increased competition for space and resources.

5. **Conclusion:**
Therefore, the removal of the Pisaster starfish, a key predator in the rocky intertidal community, was the cause of the extinction of 10 invertebrate species.

**Final Answer:**
The predator whose removal caused the extinction of 10 species of invertebrates in rocky intertidal communities is the **Pisaster starfish**.

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