ES Unit 3: Stability and Change

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Primary Succession

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The process of biological colonization and ecosystem development in an area where no soil initially exists.

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Secondary Succession

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The series of community changes which take place on a previously colonized, but disturbed or damaged habitat.

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Climax Community

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A stable and mature ecological community with little change in the composition of species.

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Ecological Succession

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The process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time.

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Pioneer Species

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The first species to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems, beginning a chain of ecological succession.

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Ecology

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The branch of biology that deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings.

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Host

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An organism that harbors a parasite, or a mutual or commensal symbiont, typically providing nourishment and shelter.

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Mutualism

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A symbiotic relationship between two species in which both species benefit.

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Niche

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The role or function of an organism or species within an ecosystem, including its use of resources and relationships with other species.

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Parasite

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An organism that lives on or in a host organism and gets its food from or at the expense of its host.