Reading Exercise Refer to Hong Kong Vegetation Ecology (Chinese Article) on P.6 and P.7 Circle all the vegetation mentioned

SUCCESSION IN HONG KONG Pioneer species More diverse than weed More diverse than scrubland

What is ecological succession? The repeated replacement by another usually more diverse community of organisms over a period of time

Model on Ecological Succession (Outside Hong Kong)

Types of Succession

Internal Changes during Succession Soil stabilization by pioneer species –bind soil particles by root action –prevent the rain splash action and wind erosion Soil stabilization by pioneer species Modification of Climatic Environment –HOW? Improvement of Soil Structure and SOM –HOW?

Microclimate Modification Light intensity temperature wind speed RH Interception by rainfall

Improvement of Soil Structure and SOM More litter -> more organic matter organic matter can: –hold more water –hold more nutrient –improve soil structure

Refer to P.12 Stages in Succession, complete the table for the dynamic changes within the ecosystem in the process of succession.

SUCCESSION IN HONG KONG Pioneer species More diverse than weed More diverse than scrubland

Would reversed succession take place? Yes retrogressive succession