The process by which a region's species and habitat mix evolves over time is called ecological succession. These communities gradually displace one another until a "climax community" is reached.Ecological succession is a fundamental concept in ecology.
The process of natural communities gradually replacing (or "succeeding") one another is known as ecological succession. For instance, if an old farm field in the Midwest of the United States is abandoned and left alone for many years, it eventually transforms into a forest as trees entirely occupy the field.
Every plant community fosters the circumstances necessary for other plant communities to flourish. For instance, early invaders like grasses may enrich the soil with nutrients, and later invaders like shrubs and trees may provide cover and shade. When a "climax" community develops, succession temporarily halts; these communities maintain a state of relative balance until a disruption triggers the succession process to resume.
There are two major types of ecological succession: primary succession and secondary succession. When a new piece of land is produced or is first exposed, primary succession occurs.In the initial succession, organisms have to start over. First, lichens may cling to rocks, followed by a few small plants capable of surviving without much soil. The term "pioneer species" refers to these.When a climax community or an intermediate community is affected by a disturbance, secondary succession occurs. The succession cycle is restarted, but not to the start because the soil and nutrients are still there.
The last stage of succession usually ends with a climax community. A climax community will stay put until a disturbance happens in that area. However, disturbance happens regularly in many ecosystems.
Comments