Succession (AQA A-Level Biology): Flashcards

Process describing change in species variety in an area over time

First organisms to colonise barren/inhospitable environments

Lichens

Creates conditions more favourable for next stage, less for itself

Stable assemblage of species remaining relatively unchanged over time

Deciduous oak woodland

Succession on previously uncolonised surfaces (e.g., bare rock)

Succession where communities previously existed but were disturbed

Secondary is 5-10 times faster than primary

Increases initially, peaks mid-succession, may decline at climax