What is ecological succession?

Ecological succession is defined as the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time. This concept encompasses a series of progressive changes that occur in a community following a disturbance or the initial colonization of a barren area. During succession, different species of plants and animals gradually replace one another, leading to a more stable and complex ecosystem structure.

The process can be categorized into primary succession, which begins with lifeless areas, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacial retreat, and secondary succession, which occurs in areas that have been disturbed but where soil and some organisms still remain, such as after a forest fire or human activities. Throughout this process, the biotic community evolves, often leading to a climax community that remains relatively stable until another disturbance occurs.

The other options do not accurately capture this gradual and ongoing change in ecosystem dynamics, making the choice of ecological succession the correct answer.