Ecological Succession Change in an ecosystem

Primary Succession Succession that takes place where no soil had previously existed Ex: land created by volcanic eruptions; land exposed due to glaciers melting

The first organisms to appear on land are the pioneer species Lichens and mosses break down rock into smaller pieces during primary succession

Small ferns and flowering plants grow next Shrubs grow next, then small evergreens, and finally deciduous trees

As plants die, they decompose and add nutrients to the soil As the plants change, the species of animals also change

Secondary Succession Disturbance of land that causes succession to reoccur Ex: fires clearing land or abandoned farmland

Small Trees Colonizing an Uncultivated Field

The final community to develop is the climax community The climax community varies depending on the climate. It may be grassland, deciduous forest, savanna, etc.