Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Ecological succession refers to the gradual process of change in species composition and community structure in an ecosystem over time. It occurs as one community replaces another due to natural disturbances or human activities.
The first organisms to colonize an area during primary succession.
Climax community: A stable and self-sustaining community that develops after ecological succession reaches its final stage.
Disturbance regime: The frequency and intensity of natural disturbances (e.g., fires, storms) that shape ecological succession patterns in an ecosystem.