Succession

Question 1

What is natural succession?

Answer 1

The process by which an ecosystem forms in a lifeless terrestrial or aquatic system

Question 2

What is primary succession?

Answer 2

Ecosystem forms on previously barren terrain or water body

Question 3

What is secondary succession?

Answer 3

Development of ecosystem after complete or partial destruction of previously existing communities

Question 4

Describe the succession process

Answer 4

-there is a slow directional change in vegetation
- as succession proceeds, species replace one another
-this species replacement generally follows an orderly and predictable pattern

Question 5

Describe the natural succession of dune systems

Answer 5

• formed by the accumulation of sand and subsequent colonisation by plant communities
  -structure of dunes influence plant community structure

Question 6

Describe the natural succession in dune systems part 2

Answer 6

• sand dunes form where strong winds transport sand ashore and obstacles like plants trap sand
• sand dunes develop as sea levels rise; pushing sediment onshore, or fall;exposing new sand

Question 7

Describe the natural succession observed in sand dunes Pt 3

Answer 7

• plant communities facilitate dune building by binding sand; as dunes grow environment changes and pioneer plants species are replaced.
• where a series of dunes has formed the youngest dune will be closest to the shore and oldest furthest away

Question 8

What are embryonic dunes!

Answer 8

Youngest stage in dune development- found close to the high tide mark

Question 9

Describe the Embryonic dune stage

Answer 9

Rarely exceed 1m in height
Hostile environment for plants due to high salinity and pH of 8-9

Question 10

What are the four stages of sand dune formation

Answer 10

-embryonic stage
-marram dunes
-fixed dunes
-machair dunes