KEY CONCEPT Ecological succession is a process of change in the species that make up a community.

Succession occurs following a disturbance in an ecosystem. Succession regenerates or creates a community after a disturbance. a sequence of biotic changes damaged communities are regenerated new communities arise in previously uninhabited areas Fig. The path of lava flow, like this one on the island of Hawaii (near right), leaves behind nothing but solid rock. Over time, primary succession will turn this harsh landscape into a fertile ecosystem (far right).

There are two types of succession. primary succession — started by pioneer species – are like lichens or mosses which can break down solid rock into smaller pieces.

There are two types of succession. secondary succession — started by remaining species