1. Pioneer species colonise bare land
2. Pioneers change environment by forming soil/humus
3. Pioneer species germinate easily and withstand harsh conditions
4. Environment becomes less hostile for other/new species
5. Decomposition of pioneers helps form soil
6. Arrival of grasses and small plants adapted to shallow/nutrient-poor soils
7. Roots of small plants help hold soil in place
8. Environment becomes more suitable for other/new species
9. Soil becomes deeper/more nutrient-rich to support larger shrubs/trees
10. Change/increase in diversity/biodiversity
11. Final species becomes the dominant climax community