The term for the dominant species in a community is referred to as the keystone species. Keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community, often exerting disproportionate influence on their environment relative to their abundance. Their presence or absence can significantly affect various ecological dynamics, including community composition and biodiversity. For example, the removal of a keystone species can lead to dramatic shifts in ecosystem balance, often resulting in species extinctions and altered habitat structures. Understanding keystone species is essential for effective conservation and management strategies within ecosystems.