PSSC 330 Lecture Notes - Lecture 13: Bromus Tectorum, Climax Community, Herbaceous Plant
Document Summary
Gradual replacement of one plant community by another through natural processes over time. Primary= from parent material/rock/bedrock (1000s year process of creating soil) Starts with arrival of pioneer species- living things such as lichens/algae that do not need soil to survive start breakdown process of rock. Soil starts to form as lichens and weather wind erosion help break down rock into smaller pieces. When lichens die, they decompose adding smaller amounts of organic matter to rock to add soil. Secondary succession= with soil in place (dealt with most in range management) Begins in a place where soil is already established. Simple plants die, adding more organic matter. Soil layer thickens grasses wildflowers and other plants begin to grow (annuals and herbaceous) After several year, plants die and nutrients are added to create soil and. *what was once bare rock now supports a variety of life. *we manage forces that cause these changes.