AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -What is the relationship between ecological succession and equilibrium in an ecosystem? Ecological succession helps maintain equilibrium in an ecosystem. Ecological succession prevents ecosystems from ever reaching equilibrium.

Detailed explanation-2: -In some environments, succession reaches a climax, which produces a stable community dominated by a small number of prominent species. This state of equilibrium, called the climax community, is thought to result when the web of biotic interactions becomes so intricate that no other species can be admitted.

Detailed explanation-3: -Communities with a stable structure are said to be at equilibrium. Following a disturbance, the community may or may not return to the equilibrium state. Succession describes the sequential appearance and disappearance of species in a community over time.

Detailed explanation-4: -What is the importance of ecological succession? Ecological succession is important for the growth and development of an ecosystem. It initiates the colonization of new areas and the recolonization of the areas that had been destroyed due to certain biotic and climatic factors.

Detailed explanation-5: -Biodiversity is the number of different species living in an ecosystem. Ecological succession is the development of species after a disaster that destroys an ecosystem. Since ecological succession increases the number of species living in an area, it also increases biodiversity.