Succession

• What is the definition of succession in ecology?

  Change in 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 stable stage of succession
• How does the type of forest in a climax community depend on climate?

  It varies based on local climate conditions
• What is primary succession?

  Succession starting from bare rock
• What are pioneer species?

  First species to colonize bare rock
• What is lichen composed of?

  Algae and fungus
• Why can lichen survive on bare rock?

  They withstand harsh abiotic factors
• How do lichen contribute to soil formation?

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

  A thin layer of decayed organic matter
• What happens to the environment as succession progresses?

  It becomes less hostile and more stable
• What is secondary succession?

  Succession after a disturbance in an area
• How does secondary succession differ from primary succession?

  Starts with soil, not bare rock
• What is one cause of disruption leading to secondary succession?

  Fires, deforestation, or flooding
• What happens to species richness during succession?

  It increases over time
• Why is biodiversity important in a stable environment?

  It allows recovery from disturbances
• How do abiotic factors differ in sand dune succession compared to bare rock succession?

  Higher salt concentration and less water
• What is one method to prevent succession for conservation purposes?

  Coppicing trees instead of clear-cutting
• Why do humans manage succession in conservation efforts?

  To maintain diverse habitats and species
• What is the benefit of coppicing in forest management?

  It provides timber and diverse habitats
• What are the key stages of primary succession?

  1. Bare rock
  2. Pioneer species (lichen)
  3. Mosses and small plants
  4. Larger plants and shrubs
  5. Climax community (forest)
• What are the impacts of human activities on succession?

  • Habitat destruction
  • Increased extinction rates
  • Need for resources (food, housing)
  • Management of succession for conservation
• What are the differences between primary and secondary succession?

  • Primary: starts from bare rock
  • Secondary: starts from existing soil
  • Primary: occurs after major disturbances
  • Secondary: occurs after minor disturbances
• What are the benefits of increased biodiversity in an ecosystem?

  • Greater stability
  • Enhanced recovery from disturbances
  • More complex food webs
  • Support for a wider range of species