Ecological Succession A series of more-or-less predictable event that occur in a community over time

Primary succession Succession that begin in these areas that have no remnants of an older community.

Primary Succession Examples: Volcanic explosions such as ones that destroyed Krakatau and blew the top off Mount Saint Helens Retreating glaciers, leaving only exposed bare rock hehind them

Secondary Succession When a disturbance affects an existing community but doesn't completely destroy it

Secondary Succession Proceeds faster that primary ,because bits of old community survive, and can regrow rapidly. Ex: Wildfires, hurricans, or other natural disasters

Processes During Succession Pioneer species alter their environment, external environmental change in ways that make it easy for other species to survive. Lichens add organic matter and form soil, Mosses and other plans can colonize and grow Trees grow, their branches and leases shade and protect the ground, and provide shelter and food for animals.

Succession Processes Increasing in complexity of the environment, enabling more plan and animal species to find homes and food As succession continues, species diversity usually increases