Starting with an open pond of water or with a bare sand beach, discuss the natural succession from a pioneer community to a climax community.
Check these sites.
http://www.marietta.edu/~biol/biomes/succession.htm
http://www1.br.cc.va.us/murray/serendipity/Biology/Activities/Sherando/succession_field_study.htm
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The process you are referring to is known as ecological succession. It is the gradual and predictable change in a community of organisms over time. Ecological succession occurs in response to changes in environmental conditions, such as the transition from an open pond of water or a bare sand beach to a climax community.
1. Pioneer Community: Ecological succession typically begins with a pioneer community. In the case of an open pond, this might involve algae and other small organisms colonizing the water surface or submerged rocks. In the case of a sand beach, this could involve simple plants like mosses and lichens establishing themselves in the sand.
2. Early Successional Stage: As the pioneer community becomes established, it starts modifying the environment. For example, algae in the pond may contribute to nutrient cycling, making conditions more favorable for other aquatic plants. On the sand beach, the growth of mosses and lichens can stabilize the substrate, reducing erosion and allowing for the accumulation of organic matter.
3. Intermediate Successional Stage: Over time, more complex and larger organisms, such as emergent plants or shrubs, colonize the area. In the pond, larger aquatic plants like reeds or water lilies might take root, providing habitat for fish and other aquatic organisms. On the sand beach, these stages may involve the establishment of grasses and herbaceous plants that tolerate the harsher conditions.
4. Late Successional Stage: As the ecosystem continues to develop, the community becomes more diverse and mature. In the pond, this could involve the establishment of various fish species and amphibians, alongside a continuous growth of aquatic plants. On the sand beach, larger trees and woody vegetation may dominate the area, and the community may include a variety of insects, birds, and small mammals.
5. Climax Community: The final stage of ecological succession is known as the climax community. This community is relatively stable and has reached a certain level of biodiversity, with interactions between various species finely balanced. In the case of an open pond, this could be a diverse assemblage of fish, reptiles, birds, and aquatic plants. On the sand beach, it could be a mature forest ecosystem with a mix of tree species, understory plants, and diverse animal populations.
It is important to note that ecological succession is not a fixed or linear process. It can be influenced by disturbances like fires, storms, or human activities, which can disrupt the successional sequence and potentially reset the community back to earlier stages.