Ecosystems

Ecological Succession Ecological succession – changes that occur in a community over time Especially after disturbances Some species die, other species move in Does not follow the same path each time

Primary Succession Succession in an area where there are no remains of an older community Example: volcanic explosion Pioneer species – the first species to inhabit an area Example: lichen

Secondary Succession Succession when a community is destroyed, but not completely Example: forest fire Occurs faster than primary succession

Climax community Community reaches a steady state Before After

Aquatic Ecosystems Photic zone – surface where the sun reaches Photosynthesis occurs Warmer water Aphotic zone – the sun does not reach No photosynthesis Colder water