STAGES IN PRIMARY SUCCESSION

Question 1

STAGE 1

Answer 1

Colonization.
First species to colonize are called pioneers, they are adapted to extreme conditons.
They are r-selected spcies; small size, short life cycles, rapid growth and production of many offspring or seeds.
Simple soil starts from windblown dust and mineral particles.

Question 2

STAGE 2

Answer 2

Establishment.
Species diveristy increases. Invertebrate species begin to visit and live in the soil increasing organic material concnetration and water holding capacity.

Question 3

STAGE 3

Answer 3

Competition
Microclimate continues to change as new species colonize.
Larger plants increase cover and provide shelter, allowing k-related species to become established.
Temperatures, sun and wind are less extreme.
Earlier pioneer species are unable to compete against k-species.

Question 4

STAGE 4

Answer 4

Stabilization
Fewer new species colonize as late colonizers become more established shading out earlier colonizers. Complex Food webs develop.
K selected species are specialists with narrower niches. They are generally larger and less productive, lower life cycles and delayed reproduction.

Question 5

FINAL STAGE

Answer 5

Climax Community
Stable and self perpetuating.
Steady state dynamic equilibirum.
Maximum possible development that a community can reach.