Which statement best describes ecological succession?

• A. It is the movement of organisms from one habitat to another.
• B. It is the process by which energy flows through a food web.
• C. It is the gradual process by which ecosystems change and develop over time.
• D. It is the rapid extinction of species due to environmental changes.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of ecological succession: It refers to the gradual and natural process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often following disturbances or the creation of new habitats.
2. Differentiate ecological succession from other ecological processes: It is not the movement of organisms between habitats, nor is it the flow of energy through a food web. These are distinct ecological phenomena.
3. Recognize the types of ecological succession: Primary succession occurs in areas where no previous ecosystem existed (e.g., bare rock after a volcanic eruption), while secondary succession happens in areas where an ecosystem previously existed but was disturbed (e.g., after a forest fire).
4. Eliminate incorrect options: The movement of organisms, energy flow, and rapid extinction are unrelated to the gradual development of ecosystems over time, which is the hallmark of ecological succession.
5. Select the correct statement: Based on the understanding of ecological succession, the correct description is 'It is the gradual process by which ecosystems change and develop over time.'