Succession and Conservation

Question 1

What is succession?

Answer 1

The process by which an ecosystem changes over time. The biotic conditions change as the abiotic conditions change

Question 2

Where does primary succession occur?

Answer 2

On newly formed/exposed land, where there is no soil or organic matter.

Question 3

Explain what happens during primary succession

Answer 3

1. Pioneer species (e.g. lichen) survive on bare rock
2. The lichen die and decompose to form a thin soil. The nutrients in the soil support a community and conditions become less hostile
3. Continual erosion and decomposing increases the amount of organic matter and thickens soil. Now able to hold water & support complex plants
4. The death & decay of flowering plants results in even more complex species
5. Fruits on trees helps to introduce insects, small mammals and birds to create a stable community
6. A climax community is formed. Abiotic factors are stable

Question 4

What is a climax community?

Answer 4

When an ecosystem is supporting the largest and most complex community of plants and animals it can

Question 5

Where does secondary succession occur?

Answer 5

On land that has been cleared of all plants, but where soil remains

Question 6

Explain what happens during secondary succession

Answer 6

1. Stable complex community
2. Disturbance destroys the community
3. Fire burns forest to ground
4. Fire leaves empty soil
5. Grasses & herbaceous plants grow back first
6. Small bushes and trees followed by evergreen trees

Question 7

Define conservation

Answer 7

Protection and management of species and habitats in a sustainable way