Assignment:
Review the chapters from the book: Smith, T. M., & Smith, R. L. (2015). Elements of Ecology (9th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
1. Community Structure Is an Expression of the Species’ Ecological Niche
2. Community Structure Changes through Time
3. Biological Structure of Community Defined by Species Composition
Prepare: Ecological succession is the change in biotic and abiotic factors of an ecosystem over time. Primary succession begins on bare ground, such as cooled lava that is colonized by pioneer plants. Secondary succession occurs on soil covered ground, which can occur on a large scale, such as a clear-cut forest, or a smaller scale such as an opening in a forest when a tree dies. It was once believed that ecosystems followed a predictable deterministic path towards a climax community. This hypothesis has been called into question as research demonstrates that multiple ecosystem trajectories are possible depending on the level and timing of disturbance as well as the local species available to colonize habitat openings.
Review the youtube video: Fire Effects in the Forest
After review the video to learn about disturbance in the role of ecological succession and community structure. As you review the videos reflect on how disturbances, such as fire, shape the physical and biological structures of ecological communities. Reflect on how fire impacts the ecosystem you selected for the final project. If your final assignment is based on an aquatic system, then consider how fire indirectly affects your system through land-water interactions and nutrient cycling.
Response should be between 250 to 300 words. Review the video and in your own words define ecological succession, and explain what role natural fires play in ecological succession and in shaping the communities shown in the video.
Attachment:- reference.rar