Ecological Succession

A rapid change in the types of species in an area due to human intervention

A natural, gradual change in the types of species that live in an area over time

The extinction of all species in an ecosystem

The introduction of invasive species into a new area

The gradual growth of an ecosystem in an area lacking soil over a long period of time.

The regrowth of a forest after a fire.

The process of soil erosion by wind.

The rapid growth of plants in a nutrient-rich area.

Sides of volcanoes

Landslides

Flooding

Abandoned farmland

Grasses, wildflowers, and small animals begin to take over.

Lichens start to grow on rocks.

Shrubs and trees immediately appear.

The area remains barren.

Primary succession starts on bare rock or land without soil, while secondary succession starts on land with existing soil.

Primary succession occurs after a forest fire, while secondary succession occurs on new volcanic islands.

Primary succession happens faster than secondary succession.

Secondary succession does not lead to a climax community.