Concept 5: Succession

stable ecosystem

an ecosystem that remains relatively constant with predictable changes

pioneer species

the first organisms to grow in a new environment

Primary succession

the forming of a brand new ecosystem from scratch

secondary succession

the forming of a brand new ecosystem using parts of the old ecosystem

climax community

the mature and stable environment that makes up the result of all ecological succession process

Ecological succession

the process of one community replacing another community over time

Differentiate between the types of organisms that serve as pioneer species for primary vs. secondary succession.

For primary succession, mosses and lichen are considered pioneer species because they help build soil and start the growth process for other plants. The pioneer species for secondary succession are weeds and short grasses, because soil is already present for them to grow.

Explain how humans could impact the process of ecological succession.

Humans can cause the start of secondary succession through starting wildfires or farming. Humans can spark primary succession through our negative impacts on the earth, such as global warming causing the ice caps to melt.

Summarize the different causes and starting conditions of primary vs. secondary succession.

Primary succession can be prompted by melted ice, erosion, lava from volcanic eruptions and rock exposure. Secondary succession can be prompted by natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, and farming.