Changing Ecosystems

Question 1

Explain the concept of ecological succession.

Answer 1

Ecological succession is a natural process of progressive change in an ecological community as a result of interaction between biotic and abiotic factors over time. Overtime, a series of communities (seres) form taking over the previous ones until a stable community is formed (climax community).

Question 2

Contrast primary and secondary succession.

Answer 2

Primary succession refers to the introduction of organisms into areas that have not previously been colonised whereas secondary succession refers to the re-introduction of organisms into a bare habitat, previously occupied by plants and animals. Secondary succession is usually faster.

Question 3

Why are pioneer species effective colonisers?

Answer 3

-They have the ability to fixate nitrogen (will allow plants to grow)
-Tolerance to extreme conditions
-Rapid germination of seeds
-Ability to photosynthesise efficiently