Chapter 6: Communities and Ecosystem Dynamics

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What is primary succession?

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Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, starting with pioneer species that colonize bare rock.

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What are pioneer species?

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Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize previously uninhabited or disturbed environments, initiating the process of ecological succession.

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What is a climax community?

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A climax community is a stable and mature ecological community that has reached the final stage of succession, characterized by a diverse array of species.

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What is secondary succession?

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Secondary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.

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How do walleyes and northern pike coexist in the same habitat?

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They coexist by being adapted to eat different types of food, reducing competition for resources.

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What is biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the diversity of species, genetic variation, and ecosystem diversity.

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How does genetic diversity benefit a species?

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Genetic diversity enhances a species' ability to adapt to environmental changes, increasing its chances of survival.

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What is the role of intermediate communities in ecological succession?

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Intermediate communities are transitional stages that occur between pioneer species and the climax community, contributing to the overall process of succession.

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What factors influence species distribution in an ecosystem?

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Factors include environmental conditions, resource availability, competition, and predation.

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What is ecological tolerance?

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Ecological tolerance refers to the range of environmental conditions that a species can withstand before experiencing negative effects.