Lecture 6 - Succession

Question 1

What is succession?

Answer 1

Directional change in a community of organisms over time

Question 2

How does succession occur?

Answer 2

1. Colonisation by Pioneer species (Algae and lichens)
2. Specific adaptations to survive extreme
3. Abiotic environment changed - erosion of rock and build up of decaying organisms
4. Pinooer community succeeded by moss.
5. Amont of organic matter increases, thicker soil

Question 3

What is a climax community?

Answer 3

A stable community of animals and plants that results from sucession process

Question 4

What is secondary succession?

Answer 4

1. Sudden alteration to land
2. Succession occurs more rapidly
3. Spores and seeds in soil survive, animals run away
4. Plants move in through dispersal

Question 5

What are the 5 stages of succession?

Answer 5

1. Pioneer stage - Free land for 10-20 years
2. Dryas land - Ice has retreated
3. Alder stage - 60 years after ice has retreated
4. Spruce stage - 100 years after ice retreated leads to spruce