AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Ecological succession is the process by which the mix of species and habitat in an area changes over time. Gradually, these communities replace one another until a “climax community”-like a mature forest-is reached, or until a disturbance, like a fire, occurs. Ecological succession is a fundamental concept in ecology.

Detailed explanation-2: -Ecological succession is a series of progressive changes in the species that make up a community over time. Ecologists usually identify two types of succession, which differ in their starting points: In primary succession, newly exposed or newly formed rock is colonized by living things for the first time.

Detailed explanation-3: -Alternate Synonyms for “ecological succession": succession; natural process; natural action; action; activity.

Detailed explanation-4: -The first stage of succession involves pioneer species. In primary succession, pioneer plants are those that can grow without soil, such as lichens. Lichens begin breaking down a rock.

Detailed explanation-5: -For example, when a tree falls in a mature forest, sunlight may again be able to reach the forest floor, which would allow new growth to begin. In this case, succession would begin with new smaller plants. Communities are always changing and growing.