Ecological succession refers to

A.

The movement of organisms from one habitat to another

B.

The competition among species for limited resources

C.

The process of natural selection in a population

D.

The gradual and predictable change in a community over time

Correct answer is D

Ecological succession can be primary or secondary. Primary succession occurs in areas where no previous community existed, such as on bare rock or after a volcanic eruption. Secondary succession occurs in areas where a previous community has been disturbed, such as after a forest fire or human disturbance. Throughout the succession process, the community gradually changes in terms of species composition, population sizes, and community interactions, leading to a more stable and mature ecosystem.