An important species of the Chesapeake Bay community is the Virginia oyster.
The larvae of these oysters settle on top of mature oysters, forming large oyster reefs. Oyster reefs allow small fishes to avoid predators and provide shelter for a variety of marine invertebrates.
Which of the following best describes the role of Virginia oysters in the Chesapeake Bay?
A. dominant species
B. foundation species
C. invasive species
D. pioneer species