Ecological succession-??
A--Is the general life cycle of a forest and how it develops
B--is the introduction of invasive species in an ecosystem which disturbs the balance
C--Is the balance of biotic and abiotic factors in an ecosystem and how they work together
D--is the change of an environment over time after a disturbance
The correct answer is D - Ecological succession refers to the process of change in an ecosystem over time after a disturbance. This could include natural disturbances such as wildfires, hurricanes, or volcanic eruptions, as well as human-caused disturbances like deforestation or pollution.
To understand ecological succession, it's important to consider the types of plants and animals that inhabit an ecosystem and how they interact with their environment. When a disturbance occurs, it disrupts the existing community, leading to changes in species composition and overall ecosystem structure. Over time, new species will colonize the area, and through a series of stages, a more stable and complex community will be established.
There are two main types of ecological succession: primary and secondary succession. Primary succession occurs in areas where no soil exists, such as on a newly formed volcanic island or a glacial deposit. The process begins with the colonization of pioneer species, which can tolerate harsh conditions and help create soil. Eventually, more complex plant and animal communities take hold.
Secondary succession, on the other hand, occurs in areas where soil is intact but has been disturbed or disrupted by events like fires or logging. In these cases, the process of succession is faster because the soil already contains nutrients and a seed bank of plant species that can germinate and grow.
To study ecological succession, researchers often use chronosequences, which are sequences of sites of different ages that have experienced similar disturbances. By examining these sites, scientists can observe and document the changes in species composition and environmental conditions over time.
Overall, understanding ecological succession is crucial for conservation and restoration efforts, as it helps identify the factors that influence the recovery and resilience of ecosystems after disturbances.