During the process of ecological succession the changes that take place in communities are

Options

A. orderly and sequential
B. random
C. very quick
D. not influenced by the physical environment

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Ecological Succession**: Ecological succession is the process through which ecosystems change and develop over time. It involves a series of progressive changes in the structure and composition of a community.

2. **Types of Succession**: There are two main types of ecological succession: primary succession, which occurs in lifeless areas (like after a volcanic eruption), and secondary succession, which occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact (like after a forest fire).

3. **Orderly Sequence of Changes**: During ecological succession, the changes that take place in communities follow a specific and orderly sequence. For example, in primary succession, the first organisms to colonize an area are usually pioneer species like lichens and mosses. As these organisms modify the environment, they create conditions suitable for other species, leading to a gradual increase in biodiversity.

4. **Influence of Physical Environment**: The changes in communities during succession are influenced by the physical environment. Factors such as climate, soil type, and availability of water play crucial roles in determining which species can thrive at different stages of succession.

5. **Conclusion**: The changes that take place in communities during ecological succession are characterized by an orderly sequence influenced by the physical environment. This means that the progression from one community to another is not random but follows a predictable pattern based on environmental conditions.

**Final Answer**: The changes that take place in communities during ecological succession are characterized by an orderly sequence influenced by the physical environment.

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