Changes to Ecosystems

competition

when two or more species fight for the same limited resources (food, water, space, shelter)

succession

the gradual change from one ecosystem to another; when the environment changes over time

primary succession

succession that occurs on surfaces where there is rock, no soil exists at first

secondary succession

succession that occurs in an ecosystem that was damaged but some soil remained

threatened

a species that could become endangered in the near future

endangered

a species that is in danger of becoming extinct

extinct

an entire species has died out or gone forever

native species

species that occur naturally in a particular area

introduced species

a species that is not naturally found in a particular area and may be helpful or harmful to that new ecosystem

invasive species

an introduced species that has a negative impact on an ecosystem; takes over an environment

hazardous waste

substances that are very harmful to humans and other organisms

conservation

protecting and preserving natural resources and the environment