Ecological succession: Ecological succession is the gradual process of change in the
species composition of an ecosystem over time. The process of succession occurs
either after the initial colonization of a newly created habitat, or after a disturbance
substantially alters a pre-existing habitat2. Gradually, these communities replace one
another until a "climax community"—like a mature forest—is reached, or until a
disturbance, like a fire, occurs.
Pioneer Species –> Intermediate Species –> Climax Species
Primary Succession
Primary succession is the initial colonization of a barren, lifeless habitat by plants and
animals12345. It occurs in regions characterized by the absence of soil and living
organisms. The process starts with microorganisms and plants like lichens and mosses.
When these pioneers die and decay, they release nutrients into the soil, making the
area better for new plants like grasses, shrubs, and sun-loving trees like pines. Over
time, this leads to a stable community with shade-tolerant trees like oaks.
Secondary Succession: It happens when a mature or growing community is damaged
or destroyed by natural events like floods, droughts, forest fires, or storms, or by
human activities like deforestation, farming, and overgrazing. As some of the
sediments from the previous community is already present, the development of the
secondary succession is relatively faster than the primary community. And with the
passage of time forest community develops..
Causes of Ecological Succession
A) Initial Causes: They cause damage to existing habitats. This can happen because
of:
Climatic Factors: Things like wind, fire, erosion, and natural disasters.
Biotic Factors: This includes competition between living things for survival.
B) Continuous Causes: It is also known as ecesis. This process involves competition,
movement of species, and gathering together. It leads to changes in the soil, such as
changes in soil pH, buildup of organic matter, and changes in nutrients
