Succession is defined as which of the following?

Succession is defined as which of the following?

• A. The Process of Rapid Plant Growth
• B. The Destruction Of An Ecosystem
• C. The Series Of Predictable Changes That Occur In An Ecosystem Over Time
• D. A Random Change In Species

Answer: (C)

Succession describes the series of predictable changes in the species composition and overall structure of an ecosystem that occur over time after a disturbance or the formation of new habitat. It begins with pioneer species that tolerate harsh conditions and begin to modify the environment, making it possible for other species to establish. As the community develops, it passes through a sequence of communities—from early, simple ones to more complex ones—often moving toward a more stable, mature state known as a climax community. This progression is gradual and directional, driven by interactions between organisms and their environment, not a sudden surge of growth, not the destruction of the ecosystem, and not random changes. Distinguish between primary succession, which starts on bare or newly formed ground like lava, and secondary succession, which occurs after a disturbance leaves the soil and seeds intact.

Succession describes the series of predictable changes in the species composition and overall structure of an ecosystem that occur over time after a disturbance or the formation of new habitat. It begins with pioneer species that tolerate harsh conditions and begin to modify the environment, making it possible for other species to establish. As the community develops, it passes through a sequence of communities—from early, simple ones to more complex ones—often moving toward a more stable, mature state known as a climax community. This progression is gradual and directional, driven by interactions between organisms and their environment, not a sudden surge of growth, not the destruction of the ecosystem, and not random changes. Distinguish between primary succession, which starts on bare or newly formed ground like lava, and secondary succession, which occurs after a disturbance leaves the soil and seeds intact.