1. Ecological Succession

2. This is a predictable change
Succession: when old populations in an ecosystem are gradually replaced by new populations.
This is a predictable change

3. Succession can be from a natural disaster or human activity.

4. 1. Primary Succession – occurs where no soil exists (rock & ash) …newly exposed surfaces.

5. Primary succession can occur because of:
Glaciers
Volcano eruption

6. Pioneer species: 1st species to occupy an area.
Primary Succession cont.
Pioneer species: 1st species to occupy an area.
Ex – lichens (fungus & algae)

7. 2. Secondary Succession -restarts succession at a different point than that which occurs with primary succession.

8. Succession proceeds at a quicker pace during secondary succession since soil is already pre-formed and ready for use by plants.

9. Secondary succession can occur because of:
forest fires
disease & pests

10. climate changes (hurricane, drought)
human disturbances (clear cutting,

11. A mature, stable community is known as a climax community.
One in which the populations of all organisms are in balance w/ each other & existing abiotic factors.

12. Climax Community