Janiszewski, P., Hanzal, V. and Misiukiewicz, W. 2014. The Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber) as a Keystone Species – a Literature Review. Baltic Forestry 20(2): 277-286 (Review Paper)

The Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) is a keystone species that has a disproportionately large effect on ecosystem structure and function relative to its abundance and biomass. The variety of roles played by beavers in the ecosystem has been extensively discussed in the literature, and certain aspects of beaver activity have been explored in greater depth than others. The aim of this study was to summarize publications that analyze the impact of beaver habitats on changes in the quality and quantity of local fauna.

Key words: Eurasian beaver, Castor fiber, impact, biodiversity