1. Rock broken down by pioneer species. 2. Soil forms. 3. Grasses and plants take root. 4. Shrubs and trees compete. 5. Hardwood trees form a forest (climax community).

1. Disturbance occurs (e.g., fire). 2. Pioneer species (grasses/weeds) colonize. 3. Other plants establish. 4. Faster progression to climax community.

Lichens use weathering and erosion to break down rock, creating soil.

The entire ecosystem can change dramatically, potentially leading to collapse.

It creates a barren landscape with no soil, requiring pioneer species to begin soil formation.

It clears existing vegetation but leaves soil intact, allowing for faster regrowth.

1. Rock broken down by pioneer species. 2. Soil forms. 3. Grasses take root. 4. Shrubs and trees compete. 5. Hardwood trees form a forest.

1. Disturbance occurs. 2. Grasses and weeds colonize. 3. Shrubs and young trees grow. 4. Fast-growing trees develop. 5. Climax community forms.