Primary Succession

Primary Succession

The gradual process of ecosystem development in areas where no previous life existed, beginning with bare rock or newly formed land.

Pioneer Species

First organisms to colonize an area, often capable of surviving harsh conditions with little nutrients, such as lichens, mosses, and bacteria.

Soil Formation

The accumulation of organic matter that enables more complex plant growth, occurring gradually during primary succession.

Climax Community

A stable and mature ecosystem where interactions between species maintain stability until a disturbance occurs.

Intermediate Stage

The stage in primary succession where larger plants begin to grow as soil quality improves, leading to increased biodiversity.

Abiotic components

Non-living elements in an ecosystem that may change during primary succession, such as rock, water, and climate.

Biotic components

Living organisms in an ecosystem that change over time during primary succession, including plants, animals, and microbes.

Nutrients Transport

The process by which wind and rain move essential nutrients during the early stages of primary succession.

Decomposition

The breakdown of organic matter, such as plants and animals, which enriches the soil during the succession process.

Succession

The natural process of change in the structure and composition of an ecosystem over a long period.