Ecological Succession: A Comprehensive Overview
Ecological succession describes the directional and continuous changes in species composition and ecosystem processes over time. This blog dives deep into the types of succession, the underlying mechanisms, the key changes that unfold, and the concept of climax communities. 1. Types of Succession 1.1 Primary Succession The gradual colonization and establishment of living communities on substrates that have never supported soil or vegetation. This process begins with abiotic surfaces—such as bare rock, fresh lava, or newly exposed glacial till—and unfolds through a series of biological and physical transformations that create soil and habitat for progressively complex organisms (Clements, 1916; Chapin, Matson, & Mooney, 2002). Initial Colonizers (Pioneer Species): These are the first organisms to arrive and establish on newly exposed or disturbed substrates lacking soil and vegetation. Key Characteristics High dispersal ability and rapi...