Equilibrium and Change (Sec. 3.2 - SNC1W1)

Flashcards covering equilibrium, ecological succession, and related concepts.

Equilibrium

A state where biotic and abiotic features of an ecosystem remain relatively constant over time and populations are healthy and stable. Biomes have a greater equilibrium than smaller ecosystems.

Ecological Succession

The process of establishing and replacing a community following a disturbance such as a geologic event (e.g. volcanic eruption), a fire, or human activity (e.g. deforestation).

Primary Succession

Succession that occurs on soil or bare rock, where no life previously existed (e.g., following a volcanic eruption).

Secondary Succession

Succession that follows a disturbance that disrupts but does not destroy the community (e.g., regrowth of an area following a forest fire).

Pioneer Species

The first species to colonize an area during ecological succession.

Climax Community

A stable, mature community that undergoes little or no change in species over time.

Aquatic Succession

The process by which a body of water, such as a pond, gradually transitions into a land ecosystem through the accumulation of sediments and decaying organisms.

Shoreline Succession

The succession of plants in a shoreline environment that are adapted to harsh conditions, which eventually leads to development of woodlands