Ecological Succession

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, involving a series of progressive changes in species composition and community structure.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the type of ecological succession that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as bare rock, and begins with pioneer species.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize a barren environment in the process of ecological succession, often including lichens and mosses.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

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

Front

What is a climax community?

Back

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.

Front

What role do disturbances play in ecological succession?

Back

Disturbances, such as fires or human activities, can reset ecological succession, allowing for new species to establish and biodiversity to increase.

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species and their relative abundance.

Front

How does soil formation occur during primary succession?

Back

Soil formation during primary succession occurs as pioneer species break down rock and organic matter accumulates, creating a substrate for other plants.

Front

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

Primary succession starts on bare rock without soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where soil is already present after a disturbance.

Front

What is a seral community?

Back

A seral community is an intermediate stage in ecological succession that occurs between the pioneer community and the climax community.