Roles of Gorillas in the Ecosystem – Gorillas are endangered primate species that live in the tropical rainforests of Equatorial Africa. Gorillas are divided into two species: Eastern and Western gorillas.
Eastern gorillas live in the tropical rainforests of East and Central Africa, while Western gorillas live in the forests of Central and West Africa.
Gorillas are herbivores, feeding only on vegetation such as shoots, roots, leaves, bamboo, and fruits.
Gorillas share at least 98% of their DNA with humans, making them our closest cousins after chimpanzees.
Gorillas have a low reproduction rate, giving birth every 4 years when the young ones have fully grown.
A male gorilla can weigh from 120 kg to 270 kg, while a female gorilla can weigh about 80 kg to 100 kg.
Gorillas are social animals that live in families headed by a dominant silverback. The silverback is responsible for protecting the family and mating with all the females in the group.
Read how gorillas adapt to the environment.
Important Roles of Gorillas in the Ecosystem
Below are the roles of gorillas in the ecosystem:
- Seed Dispersal: Mountain gorillas play an important role in seed dispersal through the fruits they eat. When the seeds grow, they form vegetation that acts as a habitat for other animals and helps modify the climate.
- Habitat Shaping: Mountain gorillas shape their habitat by moving around the forest. They create openings in the forest canopy, allowing sunlight to reach the soil and promoting the growth of new plants.
- Nutrient Cycling: Mountain gorillas contribute to nutrient cycling through their feces, which act as manure in the soil, supporting plant growth.
- Prey for Predators: Mountain gorillas serve as prey for predators like leopards. They act as a food source, supporting the survival and growth of these predators in the jungle.
- Pest Control: Mountain gorillas help control pests by consuming insects and other small animals. This reduces the populations of such organisms, preventing harm to plant species.
- Soil Aeration: Mountain gorillas play a role in soil aeration as they move through the forest. They create trails and small holes, improving soil drainage and water infiltration.
Gorillas are very important creatures with many roles in the forest and for humans.
