Ecological Succession/Limiting Factors

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, involving a series of stages that lead to a stable community.

Front

What are the two main types of ecological succession?

Back

Primary succession and secondary succession.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

The type of ecological succession that occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, such as after a glacier melts.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

The type of ecological succession that occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

The first organisms to colonize an area during the initial stages of ecological succession.

Front

Give an example of a pioneer species.

Back

Lichens and mosses are common examples of pioneer species.

Front

What is a climax community?

Back

A stable and mature community that undergoes little change in species composition.

Front

What are limiting factors in an ecosystem?

Back

Environmental conditions that restrict the growth, abundance, or distribution of organisms.

Front

Name a biotic limiting factor.

Back

Predation, competition, and disease are examples of biotic limiting factors.

Front

Name an abiotic limiting factor.

Back

Temperature, water availability, and sunlight are examples of abiotic limiting factors.