2.4 Biomes, Zonation, and Succession

Question 1

Define Biome

Answer 1

A group of ecosystems that share similar climatic conditions and therefore similar patterns of vegetation.

Question 2

Define Succession

Answer 2

A long - term process in which communities in an area change over time.

Question 3

Define Pioneer Community

Answer 3

The first group of organisms to colonize a bare area of land.

Question 4

Define Seral Stages

Answer 4

Stages in a succession.

Question 5

Define Climax Community

Answer 5

A stable community that is formed at the end of a succession.

Question 6

Define Primary Succession

Answer 6

Takes place when an area of bare ground or rock is colonized for the first time.

Question 7

Define Secondary Succession

Answer 7

Takes place after an area of land has been cleared (e.g. by a fire or landslide) and soil is already present.

Question 8

Define K - strategists

Answer 8

Organisms that produce few offspring but care for them for a long time.

Question 9

Define r - strategists

Answer 9

Organisms that produce large numbers of offspring but do not spend time or energy caring for them.

Question 10

Define Edaphic Factors

Answer 10

Physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, such as water content, organic content, texture and pH.

Question 11

Define Plagioclimax

Answer 11

The community that is produced when a succession is deflected.