Understanding Ecological Succession

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Ecological Succession

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Process of change in species structure of an ecological community over time

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Primary Succession

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Occurs on newly exposed surfaces without soil

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Secondary Succession

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Occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed a community but left the soil intact

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Pioneer Species

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First species to colonize barren environments

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Climax Community

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Stable, mature community that undergoes little or no change in species

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Lichens and Mosses

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Common pioneer species in primary succession

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Soil Formation

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Result of weathering and decomposition during primary succession

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Disturbance

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Event that changes a community, such as fire or flood

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Biodiversity Increase

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Typically occurs as succession progresses

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Human Impact

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Can alter or halt natural succession processes