A Level Biology Practice Exam

What type of community is established at the end of ecological succession?

1. A temporary community

2. A climax community

3. A pioneer community

4. A transitional community

The correct answer is: A climax community

At the end of ecological succession, a climax community is established, representing a stable and mature ecological state. This community remains relatively unchanged until disrupted by an external force, such as wildfires or human activity. Climax communities are characterized by a high level of biodiversity and complex interactions among various species, which have adapted to the local environmental conditions over time. In contrast, temporary communities are often ephemeral and do not result from the long-term processes of succession. Pioneer communities consist mainly of hardy species that are the first to colonize disturbed environments but are not the end result of succession. Transitional communities may exist between stages of ecological succession but do not signify the conclusion of this process.