Ecological Succession

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to ecological succession, including definitions and examples.

Ecological Succession

A gradual, sequential change that happens in an ecosystem over time.

Biotic Factors

Living factors that can influence species composition in an ecosystem, such as competition and predation.

Abiotic Factors

Non-living factors that can influence species composition, such as volcanic eruptions or landslides.

Primary Succession

A type of ecological succession occurring in an area with no soil or life, starting from bare land.

Pioneer Species

First organisms to colonize an area during primary succession, typically mosses, lichens, and bacteria.

Climax Community

A stable mature ecosystem that has reached the end of ecological succession.

Secondary Succession

Type of ecological succession that occurs in an area where an existing ecosystem has been disturbed but soil and life remain.

Arrested Succession

A situation where ecological succession is delayed or halted, preventing the climax community from being reached.

Cyclical Succession

A type of succession where communities cycle through different phases rather than reaching a stable climax community.

Intermediate Species

Species that inhabit an ecosystem during the transition between pioneer species and a climax community.