Which of the following correctly describes ecological succession?

Ecological succession is best characterized as a process of change and development in ecosystems over time. This concept reflects how ecosystems undergo a series of gradual changes, often following a disturbance (like fire or flood) or the initial colonization of a barren area (such as after a volcanic eruption). During succession, different species replace one another over time, leading to a more complex and stable community structure, which ultimately results in a mature ecosystem.

This process can be divided into two main types: primary succession, which occurs in lifeless areas, and secondary succession, which occurs in areas where a disturbance has cleared the existing community but left the soil intact. As succession progresses, species composition shifts, leading to greater biodiversity and more intricate interactions among organisms, thus enhancing ecosystem functions over time.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of ecological succession. Random changes in species composition, immediate crop rotation, and decay due to pollution emphasize different biological or environmental processes that do not reflect the systematic and predictable nature of succession. Understanding these distinctions clarifies the significance of ecological succession in maintaining and restoring ecosystems.