Final answer:
Ecological succession is the process in which a community changes over time after a severe disturbance. It can be divided into two types: primary and secondary succession. Primary succession occurs in newly exposed or formed land, while secondary succession occurs in a previously inhabited area that was disturbed. Pioneer species are the first to colonize the area and gradually pave the way for the development of a more diverse climax community.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ecological succession is the process in which a community changes over time after a severe disturbance. It can be divided into two types: primary succession and secondary succession. In primary succession, newly exposed or formed land, such as after a volcanic eruption, is colonized by pioneer species like lichens and plants with minimal soil requirements. These pioneer species help break down the substrate and create soil for other species to grow. Over time, the pioneer species are replaced by a more diverse community of organisms, leading to the development of a climax community. On the other hand, secondary succession occurs in a previously inhabited area that was disturbed, such as after a fire or flood. In this case, the pioneer species are typically grasses that first appear, and the area gradually returns to its natural state.