Snow Leopard's Ecosystem Role — Reading Comprehension

Snow leopards are apex predators, meaning they are at the top of their food chain. Their presence keeps mountain ecosystems healthy and balanced.

These big cats mainly hunt animals like blue sheep, ibex, and marmots. By controlling these prey populations, snow leopards prevent overgrazing. If there were too many grazing animals, they would eat all the plants, leading to soil erosion and fewer food sources for other wildlife.

Snow leopards also help other species survive. When they leave behind leftover kills, scavengers like foxes, vultures, and even smaller cats get food. Without snow leopards, these animals would struggle to find enough to eat.

Their habitat—high mountain ranges—is also crucial for humans. Many of Asia’s major rivers start in snow leopard territory. Protecting these areas ensures clean water for millions of people.

Losing snow leopards would disrupt the entire ecosystem. Fewer predators could lead to too many grazing animals, damaging plant life and even causing landslides. That’s why scientists call snow leopards an "indicator species"—their health reflects the health of their environment.

What is an apex predator?

How do snow leopards help prevent overgrazing?

Which animals benefit from snow leopards’ leftover kills?

Why are snow leopards called an "indicator species"?

What might happen if snow leopards disappeared?

What is the main idea of this passage?

How do snow leopards indirectly protect water sources?

What does "biodiversity" mean in this passage?