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Ecological Succession Gradually Transforms Ecosystems

Definition

Ecological succession

Ecological succession describes the process of gradual changes in species composition and abiotic factors in an ecosystem over time.

Species and Abiotic Factors Interact to Shape Ecosystems

Species Modify the Environment: Pioneer species influence abiotic factors such as soil formation and nutrient levels.
Abiotic Factors Shape Species Composition: Changes in light availability, temperature, and soil conditions favor different species as succession progresses.

Note

This continuous feedback loop between species and abiotic variables drives succession.

Primary Succession Begins on Bare Surfaces

Primary succession occurs where no soil exists, such as after volcanic eruptions or glacier retreats.

Example

Lichens and mosses colonize bare rock, breaking it down to create soil for grasses and shrubs.

Note

Secondary Succession Follows Disturbances in Established Ecosystems

Secondary succession takes place in areas where soil is present, but vegetation has been removed, like after a forest fire.

Example

Grasses and wildflowers are followed by shrubs and trees, restoring the ecosystem over time.

Abiotic Events and Biotic Factors Trigger Succession

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Question 1

Recap question

A surge in grazing by large herbivores reduces grass dominance in a grassland, enabling shrubs to establish. Which role are the herbivores playing in this successional process?

Can all ecosystems reach a stable climax stage?

Note

Ecological succession is the gradual process by which ecosystems change and develop over time. It involves a series of predictable stages that occur in both plant and animal communities.

Ecological succession is the process of gradual change in species composition and abiotic factors in an ecosystem over time.
It occurs in a predictable order, with each stage paving the way for the next.
Succession can take decades or even centuries to reach a stable state.

AnalogyThink of succession like renovating a house - you start with the foundation, then add walls, and finally decorate the interior. Each step prepares for the next.

DefinitionEcological SuccessionThe process of gradual change in species composition and abiotic factors in an ecosystem over time.

Ecological Succession Gradually Transforms Ecosystems

Definition

Ecological succession

Ecological succession describes the process of gradual changes in species composition and abiotic factors in an ecosystem over time.

Species and Abiotic Factors Interact to Shape Ecosystems

Species Modify the Environment: Pioneer species influence abiotic factors such as soil formation and nutrient levels.
Abiotic Factors Shape Species Composition: Changes in light availability, temperature, and soil conditions favor different species as succession progresses.

Note

This continuous feedback loop between species and abiotic variables drives succession.

Primary Succession Begins on Bare Surfaces

Primary succession occurs where no soil exists, such as after volcanic eruptions or glacier retreats.

Example

Lichens and mosses colonize bare rock, breaking it down to create soil for grasses and shrubs.

Note

Secondary Succession Follows Disturbances in Established Ecosystems

Secondary succession takes place in areas where soil is present, but vegetation has been removed, like after a forest fire.

Example

Grasses and wildflowers are followed by shrubs and trees, restoring the ecosystem over time.

Abiotic Events and Biotic Factors Trigger Succession

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Tip

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Questions

Recap questions

1 of 5

Question 1

Recap question

A surge in grazing by large herbivores reduces grass dominance in a grassland, enabling shrubs to establish. Which role are the herbivores playing in this successional process?

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Can all ecosystems reach a stable climax stage?

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Note

Ecological succession is the gradual process by which ecosystems change and develop over time. It involves a series of predictable stages that occur in both plant and animal communities.

Ecological succession is the process of gradual change in species composition and abiotic factors in an ecosystem over time.
It occurs in a predictable order, with each stage paving the way for the next.
Succession can take decades or even centuries to reach a stable state.

AnalogyThink of succession like renovating a house - you start with the foundation, then add walls, and finally decorate the interior. Each step prepares for the next.

DefinitionEcological SuccessionThe process of gradual change in species composition and abiotic factors in an ecosystem over time.

A - Unity and Diversity9 subtopics

B - Form and Function10 subtopics

C - Interaction and Interdependence9 subtopics

D - Continuity and Change12 subtopics

D4.2.12 Ecological succession and its causes (HL) Notes

Ecological Succession Gradually Transforms Ecosystems

Species and Abiotic Factors Interact to Shape Ecosystems

Primary Succession Begins on Bare Surfaces

Secondary Succession Follows Disturbances in Established Ecosystems

Abiotic Events and Biotic Factors Trigger Succession

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anim nostrud sit dolore minim proident quis fugiat velit et eiusmod nulla quis nulla mollit dolor sunt culpa aliqua

Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit

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A - Unity and Diversity9 subtopics

B - Form and Function10 subtopics

C - Interaction and Interdependence9 subtopics

D - Continuity and Change12 subtopics

Ecological Succession Gradually Transforms Ecosystems

Species and Abiotic Factors Interact to Shape Ecosystems

Primary Succession Begins on Bare Surfaces

Secondary Succession Follows Disturbances in Established Ecosystems

Abiotic Events and Biotic Factors Trigger Succession

Unlock the rest of this chapter with a Free account

anim nostrud sit dolore minim proident quis fugiat velit et eiusmod nulla quis nulla mollit dolor sunt culpa aliqua

Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit

Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident

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