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Succession
O: We will learn about succession and equilibrium.
A: Secondary succession occurs faster because soil is already formed.
O: We will describe the role of ecological succession.
succession - series of predictable changes that occur in a community over time
pioneer species – a species that colonizes an uninhabited area and that starts
the process of succession. Lichens and moss are the most common.
climax community - an ecological community that has reached the final stage
of ecological succession.
climax communities can be different for each type of ecosystem
primary succession - occurs on an area of newly exposed rock, sand, lava, or
any area that has not been occupied by a living (biotic) community.
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Takes a very long time
1. Pioneer species come in
a. Mosses and lichens that help break down rock to form soil
2. Plant seeds come in on birds, animals, wind, water and begin to grow
3. Eventually, primary succession will lead to a community of organisms in
equilibrium
secondary succession - series of changes that occur after a disturbance to an
existing ecosystem.
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Occurs faster than primary succession because there is already soil.
A: Natural disasters or human activity can trigger succession.
O: We will observe, record and describe ecological succession in different
ecosystems.
A: No, each ecosystem has a different climax community.
O: We will complete our succession activity.
A: Lichens and moss come in first as the pioneer species. Over decades, they
break down the rock to create soil. Once soil is formed, other plants
can come into the area. As more plants grow, other organisms will enter
the area until a climax community is reached.