Ecological Succession in Forest Biomes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to ecological succession, including definitions, types of succession, and the stages of ecosystem development.

Primary Succession

The process of creating life in an area where no life previously existed.

Secondary Succession

The process of re-stabilization that follows a disturbance in an area where life has formed an ecosystem.

Pioneer Species

Species, such as lichens, that are the first to colonize previously disturbed or barren environments.

Climax Community

A mature, stable community that is the final stage of ecological succession.

Ecological Succession

Natural, gradual changes in the types of species that live in an area; can be primary or secondary.

Disturbance

Any event that disrupts the structure or function of an ecosystem, initiating succession.

Soil Formation

The process by which breakdown of rocks and organic material creates soil, enabling plant growth.

Nutrient Enrichment

The increase of essential nutrients in soil, typically from decaying organic material.

Lichens

Pioneer species that can survive without soil and help in soil formation by breaking down rocks.

Successional Stages

Different phases of ecological succession from pioneer species to climax community.