BISC 204 Study Guide - Final Guide: Algal Bloom, Biogeography, Bioaccumulation
9 Dec 2016
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Document Summary
Disturbances prevent ecological systems from reaching equilibrium. Succession describes the predictable sequence of changes in the species composition of communities over time following a disturbance. Progress from pioneer species to a climax community (endpoint) Primary succession is the community development in a newly formed habitat usually not containing soil. Secondary succession is the community development following more minor disturbances that move communities away the climax state (has soil) Pioneer species have adapted to survive as the first species and often facilitate succession. The plants usually have many small seeds that disperse via wind, and have low shade tolerance. Often facilitate via soil and shade development, or through nutrient enhancement (nitrogen fixation) Late successional species have different characteristics and tend to outcompete the pioneer species when they arrive. The plants usually have few large seeds, that disperse via gravity or animals and have high shade tolerance. The predictable sequence of seasonal succession for phytoplankton and zooplankton.
