What process occurs when an ecosystem recovers from catastrophic events like fires and floods?

The process that occurs when an ecosystem recovers from catastrophic events, such as fires and floods, is known as succession. Succession refers to the gradual process through which ecosystems change and develop over time, particularly following disturbances.

In the aftermath of a disturbance, an ecosystem may start with pioneer species—organisms that are the first to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems. These species help to create a more favorable environment for other organisms to thrive. Over time, as conditions improve and the community evolves, more complex plant and animal species establish themselves, leading to a more stable and biodiverse ecosystem.

This process can occur in two forms: primary succession, which takes place in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, and secondary succession, which occurs in areas where a disturbance has cleared an existing ecosystem but left the soil intact. Understanding succession is crucial in fields such as conservation biology, ecology, and environmental science, as it informs strategies for restoring and managing ecosystems after disturbances.

In contrast, photosynthesis refers to the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy; migration involves the movement of organisms from one place to another; and pollination is the transfer of pollen from male to female parts of flowers. These processes, while important in their