Topic 3 Flashcards
The observed process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over a period of time
Ecological succession
is a gradual process of change and replacement of the types of species in a community.
Ecological succession
Types of Ecological succession
- Primary succession
- Secondary succession
It is the process of creating life in an area where no life existed earlier.
Primary succession
Starts with the arrival of living things such as lichens that do not need any soil to survive. They are called
Pioneer species
is the process of re-stabilization that follows a disturbance in an area, where life has formed an ecosystem.
Secondary succession
occurs on a surface where an ecosystem has previously existed
Secondary succession
It is the process by which one community replaces another community which has been partially or totally destroyed, might be by natural process such as floods, earthquake etc.
Secondary succession
Succession will continue until the environment reaches its final stage or the
Climax community
is a mature, stable community that is the final stage of ecological succession
Climax community
This type of community remains the same through out the time, if it is not disturbed.
Climax community
The two main physical factors that determine the nature of the community that develops in an area are:
- Temperature
- The amount of rainfall
The grasses that move in as pioneer species are often thought as
Weeds
The subsequent growth of shrubs are considered undesirable
Brush
