1. VI. Ecological Succession
The replacement of one type of community by another over time.

2. A. Primary Succession
The establishment of vegetation in an area previously uncolonized by organisms.
May begin with bare rock
Ex. New island formed after volcanic eruption

3. 2. Pioneer Community
first established group of organisms to inhabit an area
help to break down rock and add nutrients to soil
Examples: lichens - mutualistic relationship between:
Algae
Fungus
&
Photosynthesis provides
food for the fungus
Provides protection/support for algae,
breaks down rock to expose minerals

4. 3. Thin soil begins to accumulate and weeds will grow.
4. Weeds die, decompose and create more (fertile) soil so that grasses can grow.
5.  Shrubs
6.  Conifers
7.  Hardwoods (deciduous trees)

7. Mature, stable community (Depends on Biome)
8. Climax Community
Mature, stable community (Depends on Biome)
Remains until disrupted by a natural disaster or human activities (fire, flood, volcanic eruption, deforestation, etc.)
 Secondary Succession

9. B. Secondary Succession
Occurs after an existing (previously inhabited) ecosystem was disrupted (fire, hurricane, tornado, farming, logging)
Takes less time than primary succession because soil is already there and ash/detritus supply nutrients
Similar to primary succession, except for lichen stage

11. C. Pond Succession-
1. Sediments accumulate and fill in a pond, decreasing its depth and supporting plant growth
2. Aquatic pond community is eventually replaced by a terrestrial community.