Elephants shape ecosystems by knocking down trees, dispersing seeds, and digging water holes. Their actions create open spaces that benefit grasses and smaller animals. Many plant species rely on elephants to spread seeds over long distances. Without elephants, entire habitats can collapse. They are considered keystone species for this reason.
It matters because protecting elephants protects countless other species. Their impact ripples through food chains and landscapes.
When elephants disappear, biodiversity often declines sharply. Conservation isn’t just about elephants—it’s about ecosystems.
Some tree species only germinate after passing through an elephant’s digestive system. Without elephants, those plants struggle to survive.
International Union for Conservation of Nature (iucn.org)