Table of Contents
Introduction of Ecological Succession:
Ecological succession is the process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time. Succession may be initiated by events such as a fire or a flood, which create opportunities for new species to establish themselves.
What are the differences between Primary & Secondary Succession?
The differences between primary and secondary succession are:
Primary succession occurs in areas that have never been colonized by plants or animals, such as a newly formed lava flow.
Secondary succession occurs in areas that have been previously colonized, but have been disturbed, such as a field that has been abandoned and has grown back over with trees.
In primary succession, the first species to establish themselves are usually lichens and mosses, which can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions. These species create a physical and chemical foundation that other species can then use to establish themselves.
In secondary succession, the first species to establish themselves are usually the ones that were present before the disturbance occurred. This is because they are better able to survive in the disturbed environment.
Causes of Succession
Succession is the process of change in the composition of a biological community over time. Succession can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
1. Natural disturbances, such as fire, flood, or wind
2. Climatic changes, such as increased or decreased rainfall
3. Human activities, such as deforestation or land cultivation
The type of disturbance or change that initiates succession can determine the nature of the community that eventually develops. For example, if a fire burns through a forest, the community that recovers will likely be different than if a storm knocks down a stand of trees.
Characteristics of Ecological Succession
Ecological succession is the process of change in the composition of an ecological community over time. Succession begins with a pioneer community, which is a group of species that establishes itself in an area with few or no other species. The pioneer community is followed by a succession of increasingly diverse communities, until a stable community is reached.
Succession is driven by two factors: the arrival of new species and the displacement of existing species. New species can arrive through migration, dispersal, or colonization. Displacement can be caused by competition, predation, or abiotic factors like storms or fires.
The rate of succession is determined by the rate of arrival of new species and the rate of displacement of existing species. In general, the rate of succession is fastest in areas that are warm and wet, and slowest in areas that are cold and dry.
Types of Ecological Succession
There are two types of ecological succession: primary succession and secondary succession.
Primary succession is the process of a community of organisms establishing itself in an area where no community previously existed. This can happen when a area is newly created, such as when a lava flow covers a previously barren area, or when an area is destroyed, such as when a tornado or hurricane wipes out a forest.
In primary succession, the first community to establish itself is often a community of microbes. These microbes break down the rock or soil and create a hospitable environment for other organisms to establish themselves. Over time, the community of microbes is replaced by a community of plants, which in turn is replaced by a community of animals.
Secondary succession is the process of a community of organisms rebuilding itself in an area where a community previously existed. This can happen when an area is damaged, such as when a forest is clear-cut, or when an area is abandoned, such as a farm that is no longer being used.
In secondary succession, the first community to establish itself is often a community of plants. These plants create a hospitable environment for other organisms to establish themselves. Over time, the community of plants is replaced by a community of animals.
Primary Succession
Primary succession is the process of ecological succession that occurs when a habitat is created, such as after a volcanic eruption or a wildfire.
The first organisms to arrive at the site are called colonizers, and they usually consist of bacteria, algae, and fungi. These organisms quickly begin to break down the organic matter in the soil and release nutrients into the environment. This allows other organisms to invade the area and establish a community.
Over time, the community will change as different species die out and are replaced by others. The process of succession is often slow, and it can take many years for a stable community to be established.
Secondary Succession
Secondary succession is the process of community development that occurs after a disturbance, such as a fire, flood, or clear-cutting. It is a sequential process in which the community progresses through a series of stages, from pioneer species to climax community.
