Ecological Succession
Ecological succession refers to the process of gradual, sequential changes in the species composition and structure of an ecological community over time. This process typically occurs following a disturbance, such as a forest fire or volcanic eruption, and involves the colonization of new species, the establishment of a stable community, and eventual replacement by other species. Succession can be classified into primary succession, which occurs on newly formed or exposed substrates, and secondary succession, which occurs on previously inhabited or disturbed sites. The overall goal of ecological succession is to restore the ecosystem to a state of equilibrium and stability.