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Stage 1 - colonisation
Bare rock is exposed due to some type of disturbance such as a volcanic eruption. No soil is currently present.
Stage 2 - establishment
Pioneer species such as lichens and mosses establish themselves on the rock substrate.
Stage 3 - competition
Pioneer species die and decay, providing soil and nutrients for other plant species like shrubs and small trees.
Stage 4 - stabilisation
Small and large trees begin to grow and the community reaches an equilibrium balance. This results in a climax community.
Note 
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