Succession

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27 Terms

1
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"What is the definition of ecological succession?"

"It is the change in the ecological community over time.

It does not refer to changes over distance, but rather changes in a specific area or plot of land."

2
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"What are the stages of ecological succession?"

"Starts with bare rock, followed by small plants like mosses and grasses.

Progresses to larger grasses, woody plants, shrubs, small trees, and finally reaches a climax community, typically a forest."

3
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"What is a climax community in ecological succession?"

"It is the final serial stage where no further changes in species composition occur.It usually ends in a forest, which varies based on climate (e.g., deciduous forest in England, pine forest in Scotland)."

4
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"What initiates primary succession?"

"Primary succession begins with bare rock, often due to events like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.The first species to colonize this bare rock are known as pioneer species."

5
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"What are pioneer species and their role in succession?"

"Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize bare rock.They help in soil formation and create conditions for other species to thrive."

6
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"What is lichen and its significance in primary succession?"

"Lichen is a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus that can survive on bare rock.It plays a crucial role in breaking down rock and contributing to soil formation."

7
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"How do algae and fungi benefit each other in lichen?"

"The algae photosynthesize, producing glucose that feeds the fungus.The fungus absorbs water and releases enzymes to break down rock, providing minerals for the algae."

8
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"What are the characteristics of pioneer species in primary succession?"

"Pioneer species, like lichen, can survive in harsh abiotic conditions with minimal water and no food sources.They help initiate soil formation by decaying and creating a thin layer of humus, allowing other plants to grow."

9
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"How do pioneer species change the abiotic factors in their environment?"

"As pioneer species die and decay, they contribute to the formation of soil, which retains water and minerals.This process allows for the establishment of mosses and small plants, further improving soil quality and depth."

10
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"What is the role of humus in the process of primary succession?"

"Humus is formed from the decay of pioneer species, providing a nutrient-rich layer for new plant growth.It helps retain moisture in the soil, making it suitable for mosses and other small plants to establish."

11
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"What happens to the environment as primary succession progresses?"

"Over time, the environment becomes less hostile and more suitable for a variety of species.Increased biodiversity occurs as larger plants and trees establish, leading to a climax community dominated by trees."

12
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"What defines a climax community in ecological succession?"

"A climax community is characterized by a stable environment with high biodiversity, primarily dominated by trees.It represents the final stage of ecological succession where abiotic factors are favorable for a wide range of species."

13
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"What is secondary succession and how does it differ from primary succession?"

"Secondary succession occurs after a disturbance in an area that may have already reached a climax community.It starts with existing soil and often occurs more rapidly than primary succession due to the presence of nutrients and seeds."

14
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"What are some causes of secondary succession?"

"Causes include natural disasters like fires and floods, as well as human activities such as deforestation and overgrazing.These disturbances lead to the destruction of plants and animals, leaving behind soil for regrowth."

15
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"How do smaller plants contribute to the process of succession?"

"As smaller plants establish themselves, they improve soil nutrient content and depth, allowing for larger plants to grow.They also outcompete pioneer species for sunlight and resources, leading to a shift in the community structure."

16
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"What are the key characteristics of secondary succession?"

"Occurs in areas where soil is already present, unlike primary succession.Leads to increased species richness and biodiversity over time."

17
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"How does biodiversity change during ecological succession?"

"Species richness increases, meaning more different species are present.The number of individual organisms also rises, contributing to a more stable ecosystem."

18
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"What role do pioneer species play in sand dune succession?"

"Pioneer species are the first to colonize harsh environments like sand dunes.Examples include marram grass and lime grass, which are adapted to low water availability."

19
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"Why is managing succession important for conservation efforts?"

"It helps prevent habitat destruction caused by human activities.Allows for the conservation of diverse habitats and species, reducing extinction risks."

20
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"What are some human impacts on ecological succession?"

"Habitat destruction due to population growth and resource demands.Need for more food, housing, and timber can disrupt natural succession processes."

21
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"What is coppicing and how does it relate to managing succession?"

"Coppicing involves cutting trees down to their base instead of removing them completely.This method promotes regrowth and maintains biodiversity within the climax community."

22
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"How do abiotic factors influence succession on sand dunes?"

"High salt concentration and low water availability create harsh conditions for plant growth.These factors determine the types of pioneer species that can survive and thrive in such environments."

23
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"What is the significance of complex food webs in a stable ecosystem?"

"Complex food webs indicate a high level of biodiversity and species interactions.They enhance ecosystem stability, allowing recovery from disturbances."

24
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"What are the benefits of maintaining different stages of ecological succession in a habitat?"

"Supports a variety of plant species, such as bluebells and grasses, that thrive in early successional stages.Provides diverse habitats and food sources for various animals and plants, enhancing biodiversity."

25
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"How does preventing ecological succession contribute to conservation efforts?"

"Maintains multiple habitats, allowing different species to coexist and thrive.Enables the sustainable use of timber for human needs while preserving ecological diversity."

26
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"What role do early successional species play in an ecosystem?"

"They help establish a diverse plant community that can support various animal species.They can thrive in conditions where larger trees would otherwise dominate, ensuring ecological balance."

27
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"Why is it important to have a range of habitats in close proximity to forests?"

"It increases the overall biodiversity by providing different ecological niches for various species.It allows for a greater range of food sources, benefiting both flora and fauna in the area."