Ecosystems can recover after natural disasters through a process called ecological succession. This involves a series of stages where pioneer species colonize the barren land, followed by more diverse and complex species that gradually restore the ecosystem's structure and function. Over time, the ecosystem can rebuild its biodiversity, nutrient cycling, and habitat complexity. The speed and extent of recovery depend on various factors such as the severity of the disaster, the resilience of the ecosystem, and external influences like human activities.