Succession

• What is the definition of succession in ecology?

  Change in the ecological community over time
• What does the term "serial stage" refer to in succession?

  A noticeable difference in the community
• What is the first stage of succession starting from bare rock?

  Colonization by pioneer species
• What is a climax community?

  The final stage with no further changes
• How does the type of forest in a climax community vary?

  It depends on the climate of the area
• What is primary succession?

  Succession starting from bare rock
• What is the first species to colonize bare rock?

  Pioneer species
• What are lichens composed of?

  Algae and fungus in a symbiotic relationship
• How do lichens contribute to soil formation?

  They break down rock and produce humus
• What is humus?

  A thin layer of decayed organic matter
• How do mosses and small plants affect soil quality?

  They increase nutrient content and depth
• What happens to previous species as new species colonize?

  They get outcompeted and may disappear
• What is the final step in primary succession?

  Formation of a climax community
• What is secondary succession?

  Succession after a disturbance in an existing community
• What remains after a disturbance in secondary succession?

  Soil is left intact
• How does biodiversity change during succession?

  Species richness and number of organisms increase
• Why is a stable environment important in ecology?

  It allows diverse species to thrive
• How do humans impact ecological succession?

  They can disrupt habitats and cause extinction
• What is coppicing in conservation?

  Cutting trees to the base for habitat diversity
• Why is managing succession important for conservation?

  It helps maintain diverse habitats and species
• What are the key stages of primary succession?

  1. Bare rock
  2. Colonization by pioneer species (lichens)
  3. Development of soil (humus)
  4. Growth of mosses and small plants
  5. Increase in soil depth and nutrients
  6. Establishment of larger plants and trees
  7. Formation of climax community
• What are the differences between primary and secondary succession?

  • Primary succession starts from bare rock; secondary starts from soil.
  • Primary occurs after major disturbances; secondary follows minor disruptions.
  • Primary takes longer to reach climax community than secondary.
• What are the benefits of preventing succession through conservation?

  • Maintains diverse habitats
  • Supports a range of species
  • Provides resources for human use
  • Prevents extinction of vulnerable species