Which of the following is the most likely cause of succession in ecosystems?

• A. Stable populations with no environmental changes
• B. Random mutations in individual organisms
• C. Constant genetic drift in isolated populations
• D. Disturbances such as fire or flooding that alter the environment

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of ecological succession: Succession refers to the natural process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often following a disturbance. It involves the gradual replacement of one community of organisms by another.
2. Identify the key factor that drives succession: Succession is typically triggered by disturbances that significantly alter the environment, such as fires, floods, or human activities. These disturbances create opportunities for new species to colonize and establish themselves.
3. Eliminate incorrect options: Stable populations with no environmental changes do not lead to succession because the ecosystem remains unchanged. Random mutations and genetic drift are evolutionary processes that affect individual organisms or populations but do not directly cause ecosystem-wide changes.
4. Focus on the correct option: Disturbances such as fire or flooding disrupt the existing ecosystem, creating conditions for new species to thrive and initiating the process of succession.
5. Summarize the reasoning: Succession is most likely caused by environmental disturbances that alter the ecosystem, allowing new communities to develop and replace the previous ones over time.