Ecological Succession KEY CONCEPT Ecological succession is a

Ecological Succession KEY CONCEPT Ecological succession is a process of change in the species that make up a community.

Ecological Succession Species Richness • Species richness is the number of species in a community • Species evenness is the relative abundance of each species

Ecological Succession Latitude and Species Richness • In general, species richness is greatest near the equator, and larger areas support more species. • Species interactions such as predation can promote species richness.

Ecological Succession Community Stability and Species Richness • Disturbances can alter a community by eliminating or removing organisms or altering resource availability. • Species richness may improve a community’s stability • Areas of low species richness may be less stable in the event of an ecological disturbance.

Ecological Succession occurs following a disturbance in an ecosystem. – a sequence of biotic changes – damaged communities are regenerated – new communities arise in previously uninhabited areas

Ecological Succession • There are two types of succession. – Primary succession — started by pioneer species – Occurs in areas that have been recently exposed to the elements and lack soil (bare rock)

Ecological Succession Example of primary succession

Ecological Succession – Secondary succession — started by remaining species – Occurs in areas where the original ecosystem has been cleared by a disturbance.

Ecological Succession Example of Secondary Succession

Ecological Succession Summary of Succession