Ecological Succession

The gradual, natural change in an ecosystem over time, where one community of organisms replaces another.

Species that are the first to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems, initiating the ecological succession process.

The type of ecological succession that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption.

The type of ecological succession that occurs in an area where a disturbance has destroyed an existing ecosystem but soil and some organisms still remain.

Lichens are pioneer species that help break down rock into soil, facilitating the growth of other plants.

As succession progresses, the number of species typically increases, leading to a more complex and stable ecosystem.

A stable and mature ecological community that undergoes little change in species composition.

Factors include climate, soil type, availability of species, and disturbances such as fires or human activities.

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

An event that significantly alters the structure of an ecosystem, such as fire, flood, or human activity.