What is the process of ecological succession?

The process of ecological succession is accurately described as the gradual change and development of ecosystems over time. This concept refers to the progressive replacement of one community by another, leading to changes in species composition and ecosystem structure. It occurs in a series of stages, from pioneer species colonizing a barren or disturbed area to the establishment of a climax community, which is more stable and diverse.

This process can be categorized into primary succession, which starts in lifeless areas such as bare rock, and secondary succession, which occurs in areas where a disturbance has cleared out a community but left the soil intact. The gradual nature of this process allows for the development of complex interactions among species, as well as the establishment of new niches and habitats. Understanding succession is critical in ecology as it helps explain how ecosystems respond to disturbances and recover over time.