Ecological Succession: Example Sequences

Here are some simplified representations of the typical ecological succession in a various ecosystems. However, it’s important to note that ecological successions are usually complex and don’t always follow a linear path. These examples are for understanding concepts only.

Six Metre Deep Pond

Submerged Plants → Floating Plants → Reeds → Herbs → Shrubs → Trees

In ecological succession, submerged plants that are adapted to underwater growth are the first colonizers of the pond environment. As the pond becomes shallower over time due to sedimentation, floating plants that can thrive with roots underwater and leaves above water start to inhabit the pond. Next, tall reeds and grasses grow in the shallow water edges. When pond depths become very shallow, low-growing herbaceous plants can establish themselves. Finally, the terrestrial ecosystem phase begins with shrubs and then trees growing where the pond used to be.

So the sequence needs to show adaptation to increasing shallow water depths, from submerged plants to floating plants to shoreline plants to terrestrial plants.

Abandoned Agricultural Field

Grasses and Weeds → Shrubs and Bushes → Young Trees and Saplings → Mature Forest

As farmers abandon fields, opportunistic pioneer species like grasses and weeds quickly colonize the area first. Next, shrubs and bushes establish themselves, creating soil stability for more plant growth. As shading increases, young trees and saplings that can grow in partial sunlight emerge. Finally, over many years, a mature deciduous or mixed forest develops.

Drainage of a Freshwater Marsh

Reedgrasses → Sedges and Rushes → Drought-Tolerant Herbs → Shrubs and Trees

As marshes dry out due to drainage or drought, dense stands of reedgrasses are replaced by sedges and rushes adapted to intermediate moisture levels. Moving upslope, low herbs that can tolerate drier conditions establish next. The final stages see woody shrubs and trees encroaching as the marsh transitions to damp woodland.

New Volcanic Island

Lichens and Algae → Hardier Plants and Grasses → Shrubs and Bushes → Forest

As new volcanic islands cool, the first colonizers are lichens and algae that can crack rock and add initial organic material. Next, plants like grasses establish, adding more soil structure. In turn, shrubs and bushes emerge, further binding the soil and retaining water. Finally, the mature ecosystem of lush forest develops.

Sand Dunes and Beach

Grasses and Herbs → Shrubs and Bushes → Conifers and Trees → Broadleaf Forest

Sand dune grasses act as pioneer species, stabilizing shifting sands. Low mat-forming herbs add organic materials to fix soils. Next, shrubs and bushes like willows establish. Conifers that thrive in sandy soils follow before richer soil allows taller broadleaf trees to develop into mature forest.

Coral Reef Following Damage

Algae → Hard Corals and Soft Corals → Other Invertebrates → Fish

When a coral reef suffers damage, fast-growing algae may initially proliferate. As algae stabilize the area, slow-growing hard and soft corals start establishing themselves on the reef. Other invertebrates like sponges and clams then provide microhabitats for fish species to return.

Glacier Retreat

Lichens & Mosses → Grasses and Herbs → Shrubs → Conifers and Deciduous Trees

As a glacier retreats, it exposes new terrain that is first colonized by lichens and mosses which can grow on rock. Simple plants like grasses and herbs establish next in the thin soil. Shrubs follow, creating more humus for young conifers and finally deciduous trees to develop into forest.

Recently Formed Pond

Microorganisms → Phytoplankton → Zooplankton & Insects → Small Fish and Amphibians

In a newly formed pond, microorganisms are the first residents. With nutrients, phytoplankton soon develop, supporting simple zooplankton and insects. These allow predators like small fish and amphibians to inhabit the pond. Further succession occurs as the pond ages.

Highway Road Cut

Mosses and Grasses → Shrubs and Small Trees → Larger Trees and Forest

On bare steep slopes like highway road cuts, mosses and grasses are initially able to grow. As soil accumulates, shrubs and small hardy trees can develop like junipers. Finally, the slopes stabilize enough for larger tree species to mature into forest.