1. Ecological Succession
Series of changes in an ecosystem when one community is replaced by another community as a result of changes in abiotic and biotic factors.

2. Primary Succession
Succession that takes place in an area that has not previously been inhabited
Where no soil had previously existed

3. Ex: Bare rock from volcanic lava flows
Rock faces scraped by glaciers
City street

5. Depends on Pioneer Species
Organisms that can grow without soil and facilitate soil formation

6. 1st: Breakdown rock into smaller pieces
Lichen (fungi and algae mutualistic symbiotic relationship)
Some mosses

7. Once there is enough soil & nutrients, then:
Small plants
Flowers, ferns, shrubs grow
These plants break down rock further, developing more soil
Seeds of other plants & small trees germinate & grow.
Over time: species grow & die
Decomposition add nutrients to soil

8. Then Larger plant species populate the area
Species of animals inhabit the area and change occurs
Climax Community – Mature community
Determined by Limiting Factors of the area

9. Secondary Succession
Succession that begins in an area where there was a preexisting community & well-formed soil
EX:
Abandoned farmland
Vacant lots
Clear cut forests
Open areas produced by forest fires

10. Occurs in all ecosystems
The ecosystem interacts to restore the original condition of the community
Occurs in all ecosystems
Forest
Pond
Coral Reef
Marine Ecosystem
Desert Ecosystem

12. Trees Colonizing an Uncultivated Field

13. The first organisms to appear on land are the pioneer species

15. The final community to develop is the climax community
The climax community varies depending on the climate. It may be grassland, deciduous forest, savanna, etc.