Answer:
See below - the bold words are the characteristics, with explanations underneath.
Step-by-step explanation:
Succession, in the context of ecology and natural ecosystems, refers to the process by which the composition of a biological community changes over time. There are several key characteristics of succession:
Gradual Process: Succession is a gradual and often slow process that can take place over many years or even centuries. It involves a series of predictable and orderly changes in the community structure.
Primary and Secondary Succession: There are two main types of succession:
Primary Succession: Occurs in areas where no soil or living organisms exist, such as on newly formed volcanic islands or glacial moraines.
Secondary Succession: Occurs in areas where soil and some form of previous biological community have been disturbed or removed, such as after a forest fire or clear-cutting.
Pioneer Species: Succession typically begins with pioneer species, which are often hardy and adaptable plants and microorganisms. These species are the first to colonize a newly disturbed or barren environment.
Climax Community: Over time, as succession progresses, the community undergoes a series of changes. Eventually, it reaches a stable and self-sustaining endpoint called the climax community. The composition of the climax community is determined by local environmental conditions.
Facilitation, Inhibition, and Tolerance: These are important concepts in succession. Facilitation occurs when one species makes it easier for another species to establish itself. Inhibition happens when the presence of one species hinders the establishment of another. Tolerance refers to the ability of a species to grow and reproduce in the presence of other species.
Biodiversity: Succession often results in an increase in biodiversity as more species colonize and occupy niches within the ecosystem. This is particularly true during the early stages of succession.
Nutrient and Soil Changes: As succession progresses, there may be changes in soil conditions, nutrient availability, and organic matter content. These changes can influence the types of species that can thrive in the environment.
Disturbance Events: Succession can be interrupted or reset by disturbance events such as fires, storms, or human activities. In such cases, the ecosystem may revert to earlier stages of succession.
Human Impact: Human activities, such as agriculture, urbanization, and deforestation, can alter or accelerate succession processes, often leading to simplified and less diverse ecosystems.
Conservation and Management: Understanding succession is important for ecological conservation and land management. It helps scientists and land managers make informed decisions about habitat restoration and preserving biodiversity.
These characteristics of succession illustrate how ecosystems change and develop over time in response to both natural and human-induced factors.