In the context of ecosystem recovery, what must remain for succession to occur?

For succession to occur in the context of ecosystem recovery, it is essential that the necessary abiotic elements remain present within the environment. These abiotic elements include factors such as soil nutrients, water, temperature, and light, which are crucial for supporting the growth and development of various organisms within the ecosystem.

Without these foundational abiotic components, the biological processes that drive succession, such as the colonization of new species, the regeneration of soil, and the establishment of vegetation, cannot take place effectively. For instance, if essential nutrients are deficient, plants may struggle to grow, leading to a lack of food sources for herbivores and consequently impacting the entire food web.

While adequate light, diverse organisms, and balanced soil pH are important for a healthy ecosystem, they are secondary to the presence of essential abiotic elements. If the essential abiotic components are not intact, then succession cannot proceed, regardless of the other factors. This emphasizes the fundamental role of abiotic factors in supporting life and driving ecological changes over time.