Equilibrium and change

The story of Krakatoa

• August 27, 1983• The island was destroyed

along with every living thing in its lush forests

• The remaining part of the island was buried in over 40 m of volcanic ash

• Within 9 months, life returned to the island!• How?– Seeds were carried to the island by wind, the sea,

and birds.– Within 100 years, a lush rainforest community had

been established!

• Lupines were the first plants to appear after the eruption of Mount St. Helens, in Washington State

Succession

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Case Study: Kirtland’s Warbler

• Dense, young jack pine forest ONLY!

• Nest on the ground.

• Forage in low parts of the trees.

Why jack pine?• Their cones only open after the trees have

been cleared away by forest fire or after logging (in the summer sun)

What is the importance of succession?