Ecological Succession and Recovery

This flashcard set covers key terms and definitions related to ecological succession and recovery processes in ecosystems.

Ecological Succession

The process through which ecosystems recover and progress through a series of stages following a disturbance.

Pioneer Species

First species to colonize bare rock or sterilized soils during primary succession, such as lichens and mosses.

Nitrogen Fixation

The biochemical process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonium (NH4+) and then into nitrate (NO3-) that plants can utilize.

Mycorrhizae

A symbiotic association between plant roots and fungi that enhances nutrient and water absorption.

Primary Succession

The colonization of lifeless areas, starting from bare rock or previously uninhabited environments.

Secondary Succession

The process that occurs when an ecosystem has been disturbed but soil and some organisms still remain.

Climax Community

A stable community of plants and animals that is the final result of the ecological succession process, stabilized over time.

Symbiosis

A close, long-term interaction between two different biological species, such as plants and nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

Soil Regeneration

The process of restoring soil ecology after a disturbance, which is critical for ecosystem recovery.

Marine Succession

The process of ecological succession that occurs in marine environments, such as on coral reefs.