Which animal plays a critical role in controlling the population of plants in Pennsylvania's ecosystem?

Whitetail deer play a critical role in controlling the population of plants in Pennsylvania's ecosystem due to their grazing habits. As herbivores, they consume a variety of plant species, which helps maintain a balance in the ecosystem by preventing any single species from becoming overly dominant. This grazing pressure can influence plant community composition and diversity, allowing for other plants and undergrowth to flourish, which is essential for the overall health of the forest and grassland environments in Pennsylvania.

A well-managed population of whitetail deer helps ensure that the vegetation is kept in check, which can promote better habitat for other wildlife. When deer populations are too high, they can lead to overgrazing, which results in reduced plant diversity and health. Conversely, a balanced deer population contributes positively to the biodiversity of the region, illustrating their vital role in Pennsylvania's ecological framework.