Changing Ecosystems Flashcards
Explain the concept of ecological succession.
Ecological succession is a natural process of progressive change in an ecological community as a result of interaction between biotic and abiotic factors over time. Overtime, a series of communities (seres) form taking over the previous ones until a stable community is formed (climax community).
Contrast primary and secondary succession.
Primary succession refers to the introduction of organisms into areas that have not previously been colonised whereas secondary succession refers to the re-introduction of organisms into a bare habitat, previously occupied by plants and animals. Secondary succession is usually faster.
Why are pioneer species effective colonisers?
-They have the ability to fixate nitrogen (will allow plants to grow)
-Tolerance to extreme conditions
-Rapid germination of seeds
-Ability to photosynthesise efficiently
