Ecosystem Dynamics Through Time: The Journey of Succession

The video explores ecosystem dynamics, focusing on succession, a process where ecosystems change over time through a series of stages leading to a climax community. It distinguishes between primary and secondary succession, highlighting the role of pioneer species and the impact of disturbances. The video also discusses biotic factors like dominant and keystone species, and concludes with the effects of invasive species on ecosystems.

What is the term used to describe the process of change in an ecosystem over time?

• Succession

• Evolution

• Adaptation

• Migration

In primary succession, what is the first type of organism to colonize bare rock?

• Pioneer organisms

• Trees

• Animals

• Shrubs

Which of the following is a characteristic of a climax community?

• Stable and complex

• Simple structure

• Low diversity

• Wide niches

How does secondary succession differ from primary succession?

• It starts with bare rock

• It begins with soil already present

• It takes longer to reach a climax community

• It involves only animal species

What can lead to succession in an ecosystem?

• Stable conditions

• Disturbances

• Overpopulation

• Lack of resources

What happens to species diversity when disturbance intensity is moderate?

• It becomes unstable

• It remains the same

• It increases

• It decreases

In an ecosystem, what is a dominant species?

• The most aggressive species

• The most abundant species

• The species with the largest size

• The species with the longest lifespan

What role does a keystone species play in an ecosystem?

• It is always a producer

• It has a large impact despite low abundance

• It is the most numerous species

• It is the largest species

What is the effect of removing a keystone species from an ecosystem?

• Increase in biodiversity

• Collapse of the community

• No significant change

• Increased stability

How do invasive species typically affect native species?

• They help them thrive

• They become extinct

• They outcompete them

• They have no effect