Ecosystem Succession

Ecological Succession: the process by which a biological community evolves over time because of changing biotic or abiotic factors

1) Primary Succession: gradual change of an ecosystem following a disturbance that leaves no remains of an older community

• Pioneer species: first species to colonize a previously disrupted/damaged ecosystem (lichen, algae, moss, herbs, and ferns)

  • Lichen: symbiotic algae-fungus relationships

2) Secondary Succession: gradual change of an ecosystem following a disturbance that leaves some remains of an older community (forest fires, deforestation, clearing vegetation for building)