2.4 Flashcards
How do energy flows, GPP and NPP, diversity, and mineral cycling change during succession
During succession, energy flows, which refer to the transfer and transformation of energy within an ecosystem, change as new species and communities establish. Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) and Net Primary Productivity (NPP) increase as the ecosystem becomes more established. Biodiversity generally increases over time, and mineral cycling becomes more efficient as the ecosystem matures.
How do reproductive strategies change between pioneer and climax communities?
Pioneer communities typically consist of species with high reproductive rates and rapid growth strategies, as they need to quickly colonize disturbed or bare areas. In contrast, climax communities are composed of species with slower reproductive rates and strategies focused on long-term survival and stability.
What are the roles of r and k strategists in succession?
R-strategists are species that prioritize rapid growth and reproduction, typically found in pioneer communities. K-strategists are species that prioritize stable populations and long-term survival, commonly found in climax communities. The balance between these strategies can influence the trajectory and dynamics of succession.
How can a case study describe the pattern of change in plant communities during succession?
A case study can provide specific examples and observations of how plant communities change over time during succession. It may include information on the types of species that dominate at different stages, the characteristics of the vegetation, and the factors influencing the successional process.
How does succession link to habitat, species, and genetic diversity?
Succession plays a crucial role in shaping and influencing habitat, species, and genetic diversity. As ecosystems progress through succession, habitats change, which can support the colonization and establishment of different species. This process contributes to an increase in species diversity and the development of unique genetic adaptations.
How will climax communities vary depending on climate, soil, and local factors?
Climax communities can vary significantly based on climatic conditions, soil characteristics, and other local factors. Different environmental conditions favor specific plant species, leading to variations in the composition, structure, and functioning of climax communities in different regions.
What factors can divert the progression of succession?
Several factors can divert the progression of succession, including natural disturbances like fires or storms, human activities such as habitat destruction or invasive species introductions, and environmental factors like pollution or climate change. These factors can disrupt or alter the successional trajectory.
How does the resilience of the ecosystem impact its response to change?
The resilience of an ecosystem refers to its ability to withstand disturbances and recover its structure and function. Ecosystems with higher resilience can better adapt to change, maintain stability, and recover more effectively from disturbances compared to less resilient ecosystems.
How can models and graphs of succession and zonation be interpreted?
Models and graphs of succession and zonation can help visualize and understand the patterns and processes occurring in ecosystems. They can show changes in species composition, community structure, and environmental variables over time or along environmental gradients. Interpreting these models and graphs involves analyzing the trends, relationships, and dynamics represented in the data.
How does human activity impact ecosystem stability, succession, and diversity?
Human activity can have both positive and negative impacts on ecosystem stability, succession, and diversity. Activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, introduction of invasive species, and climate change can disrupt ecosystems, hinder successional processes, and lead to a loss of biodiversity. Conservation efforts and sustainable practices, on the other hand, can help protect and restore ecosystem stability and diversity.
What is succession?
Succession is the predictable change in a vegetative area over time. Succession typically occurs following a disturbance or on previously unoccupied land.
What is primary succession?
Primary succession occurs in areas that have never had vegetation (eg. a new volcanic island)
What is secondary succession?
secondary succession occurs when human impact has left an area disturbed (eg. abandoned fields, deforested areas, etc).
What is zonation?
Zonation is the change in a vegetative community alongside an environmental gradient.
What is an environmental gradient?
An environmental gradient is the change in environmental conditions over a geographical area (altitude, water depth, proximity to ocean, etc).
