Ecological succession is a natural process that helps increase the variety of life in an area over time. There are two main types: primary and secondary succession. Here's a simple breakdown of how it works:
More Variety: At first, when an area is bare, certain plants like mosses and lichens are the first to grow. These early plants are called pioneer species. They make it easier for more complex plants and animals to move in later on.
Changing Habitats: As these plants grow and eventually die, they change the environment around them. They add nutrients to the soil, which helps other plants grow. This process creates new homes (or habitats) for different species, attracting a wider range of life.
Building Stability: Over time, these ecosystems become more balanced and stable. This means they can support many different kinds of plants and animals. For example, a mature forest can have hundreds of different species compared to the empty land it started from.
In short, ecological succession helps boost biodiversity. This variety makes ecosystems stronger and healthier, which benefits all living things.
Ecological succession is a natural process that helps increase the variety of life in an area over time. There are two main types: primary and secondary succession. Here's a simple breakdown of how it works:
More Variety: At first, when an area is bare, certain plants like mosses and lichens are the first to grow. These early plants are called pioneer species. They make it easier for more complex plants and animals to move in later on.
Changing Habitats: As these plants grow and eventually die, they change the environment around them. They add nutrients to the soil, which helps other plants grow. This process creates new homes (or habitats) for different species, attracting a wider range of life.
Building Stability: Over time, these ecosystems become more balanced and stable. This means they can support many different kinds of plants and animals. For example, a mature forest can have hundreds of different species compared to the empty land it started from.
In short, ecological succession helps boost biodiversity. This variety makes ecosystems stronger and healthier, which benefits all living things.