19.6 succession

Question 1

what is succession used the describe?

Answer 1

changes in species that occupy a particular area over time

Question 2

what does the pioneer species do?

Answer 2

make up a pioneer community that have features which suits them for colonisation

Question 3

what are some (5) features of pioneer species?

Answer 3

1) asexual reproduction -> rapidly multiply & build up population
2) producing large quantities of wind-dispersed seeds -> reach isolated situations
3) ability to photosynthesise -> not dependent on animal species
4) could fix nitrogen from atmosphere
5) tolerate extreme conditions

Question 4

throughout succession, how is the environment changed by species?

Answer 4

environment is less suitable for existing species -> could be outcompeted
& more suitable for other species with different adaptations

Question 5

what is the climax community?

Answer 5

a balanced equilibrium of species which consists of animals & plants

Question 6

what does an increase in biodiversity in a climax species lead to?

Answer 6

more complex food webs & increased biomass

Question 7

what are the 3 features of a climax community?

Answer 7

• lots of biodiversity
• abiotic environment becomes less hostile
• greater number & variety of habitats & niches

Question 8

what is secondary succession?

Answer 8

replacement of existing community following disruption

Question 9

what are some examples of disruption that leads to secondary succession?

Answer 9

human impact, natural disasters