Ecological succession refers to the progression of an ecosystem from one phase to another. This process is a continuous one, with changes occurring in the population of species. It has several applications in landscape studies and restoration. For example, if a disaster occurs, the area that remains is known as a seral community. As the species in the seral community die, new ones will grow in their place. Eventually, the ecosystem will return to its previous state, with the change being an inevitable one.
The processes of ecological succession are either primary or secondary. The type of succession that occurs in a particular region depends on the conditions of the area. There are two types of biotic succession: xerosere and hydrosere. The former is characterized by the gradual establishment of new species while the latter is defined as a process of natural selection. As a result of these alterations, the environment becomes more stable and balanced.
An oak climax forest will maintain itself for many years, if no external forces disrupt the process. A secondary succession can be initiated when humankind destroys a tropical rainforest. This reforestation process often takes many years. By knowing how biotic succession works, ecologists can control growth and avoid superior species. Knowledge of this process can also be used to protect dams.
The final stage of ecological succession is called a climax community. In this state, the community web is so intricate that no other species can survive. Unfortunately, climax communities are very rare on our planet. In most environments, small disturbances occur over time, which create a diverse mix of species. Any species can become dominant at any point in the process. However, this is rare on Earth today. There are two types of ecosystems, namely primary succession and secondary succession.
The first stage of ecological succession is called secondary succession. It occurs after the first stage is completed. The secondary stage occurs after the primary one. This is the most common type of succession, and it happens when one species is unable to compete with another. This is called the first stage of ecological succession. If there are no biotic factors, the secondary and third stage of ecological transition is referred to as the primary stage. The fourth stage is the most important in this process.
In a climax community, the small plants come up first. After a few years, they become dominant. In a secondary succession, the smaller plants emerge later. A climax community is similar to a meadow. The primary community, the climax, can only be found in forests. During the secondary succession phase, the climax community is the one that has the highest biodiversity. The climax community can be found in both forest and desert environments.