Ecological succession is a gradual and natural change in an ecosystem over hundreds or thousands of years Ecological Succession

Primary Succession Primary Succession begins in an area without soil Primary succession is the series of changes that occur in an area where no ecosystems previously existed. Such an area might be a new island formed by the eruption of an undersea volcano, or an area of rock uncovered by a melting sheet of ice.

Secondary Succession Secondary succession takes place where an existing ecosystem has been disturbed. Secondary succession is the series of changes that occur After a disturbance in an existing ecosystem. Natural disturbances that have this effect include fires, Hurricanes, and tornadoes Human activities, such as farming, logging, or mining May also disturb an ecosystem

Niche An organism’s particular role in an ecosystem The Honey Bee’s niche is to pollinate Plants as it gathers nectar and pollen Desert cottontails Eat grasses and shrubs Food source for coyotes, foxes, hawks, horned owls, eagles

Species A group of similar organisms whose members can mate with one Another and produce fertile offspring Fox Squirrel White tailed deer

Adaptation A characteristic (trait) that helps an organism Survive in its environment or reproduce Wolf’s adaptations Include sharp teeth, Speed, and excellent Hearing and eyesight

Population Pine Trees Duck White Tailed Deer A group of organisms of the same species living In the same area Bluebonnet flowers

Flora All species of plants that are found in a particular region, period, or special environment.

Fauna The animals of a particular region, habitat, or geological period.

Pioneer Species Spiral of lichen on a rock Pioneer species are the first organisms to grow in a bare area (bare rock with little or no soil) Mosses Pioneer species are often Lichens and mosses carried to The area by wind or water As these organisms grow, they help break up the rocks. When they die, they enrich the thin layer of soil that is forming.