Ecological Succesions
Primary Ecological Succession
happens over hundreds of years
New area = rocky and lifeless
After a while, rocks break down into soil due to weathering & pioneer organisms start to appear (e.g moss)
Over time, soil starts to become deeper & small plants and animals start to establish (e.g grass, herbs, birds and insects)
Later soil becomes deep enough for small trees and shrubs to establish, thus attracting more and larger animals
Secondary Ecological Succession
happens after an event, at which some disturbance destroys all vegetation
Event occurs - disturbance destroys all vegetation
1-2 years later - Annual plants sprout & Pioneer species arrive
3-4 years later - Grasses and perennials occur & Intermediate species arrive
5 - 150 years - Shrubs and trees occur & beginning of climax community