Zonation and Succession

Question 1

Communities typically show patterns in both space and time. These include:

Answer 1

Zonation- changes in the composition of a community which occur in response to an environmental gradient
Stratification- layering of different plant species into distinct strata
Succession- changes in the species composition of a community over time

Question 2

What is zonation?

Answer 2

refers to the division of an ecosystem into distinct zones that experience similar abiotic conditions
In a more global sense, differences in latitude and altitude create distinctive zones of vegetation type or biomes

Question 3

What is shoreline zonation?

Answer 3

it is particularly clear on an exposed rocky seashore, where assemblages of different species form a banding pattern approximately parallel to the waterline

Question 4

where do rocky shores exist?

Answer 4

exist where wave action prevents the deposition of much sediment. the rock forms a stable platform fot he secure attachment of organisms such as large seaweeds and barnacles

Question 5

What is altitudinal zonation?

Answer 5

clearly visble on the side of mountains. with increasing altitude, the vegetation changes in composition, growth form and height.