Ecological succession is the process by which an ecological community undergoes predictable and orderly changes in its composition over time. This process occurs in response to changes in environmental conditions, such as disturbances like fires, floods, or human activities. There are two main types of ecological succession: primary succession, which occurs in areas where no soil is present, such as on bare rock or lava flows, and secondary succession, which occurs in areas where soil is already present, such as after a forest fire or clear-cutting. During ecological succession, different plant and animal species become established in the ecosystem, leading to a gradual change in biodiversity and ecosystem structure. Ultimately, this process results in the development of a stable and mature community, known as a climax community.
