Ecosystem Succession Paper

University of Phoenix
Science 256: People, Science, and the Environment
Ecosystem Succession Paper
31Jan05
Ecosystem 2.
Succession
Succession is a phenomenon of transition in community structure and function which is time related and often occurs in a somewhat predictable manner. Primary succession, (fig 5-4, pg 87) occurs following formation of a new, yet barren habitat for colonization. Such a habitat may be formed by volcanic activity, glacial activity, or strip-mining; it initially lacks soil. A study of Glacier Bay, AL, showed that following retreat of the glacier…