19.6 Succession Flashcards
1
Q
define succession
A
process by which an ecosystem changes overtime
2
Q
main points of succession
A
- colonisation by pioneer species
- changes the environment (less hostile)
- new species able to grow
- increases biodiversity
- climax community
3
Q
how does succession happen (time)
A
in stages, takes time
4
Q
types of succession
A
- primary
- secondary
5
Q
what is primary succession
A
newly formed/exposed ground with no species presents new rocky surfaces
e.g/ cooling magma
6
Q
what is secondary succession
A
land is cleaned from all plants, soil remains
e.g/ forest fire
7
Q
define pioneer species
A
organism adapted to grow in hostile abiotic conditions
8
Q
what do pioneer species do to the environemnt
A
they make it less hostile as they decompose
e.g/ forming soil
9
Q
characteristics of a climax community
A
- largest community
- most complex (habitats/niches)
- highest biodiversity
- more biomass
10
Q
define climax community
A
the stage during succession that is stable, with balance equilibrium (plants/animals)
