Marine West Coast!
Marine West Coast!
Succession is the process by which a habitat changes over time as different plants get established. This process can occur from bare rock up to an old-growth forest, and can get reset by a disturbance such as fire. The path of succession varies from one habitat type to another, but the general idea goes like this: Bare rock ---> Lichens --> Mosses --> Grasses & Forbs --> Brush --> Deciduous hardwood forest --> Mixed deciduous-coniferous forest --> Coniferous forest --> Old growth coniferous forest
The floor of a temperate deciduous forest has more small plants because the canopy of deciduous trees allows more light to reach the forest floor, promoting the growth of a greater variety of plant species. In contrast, the dense canopy of coniferous forests limits sunlight exposure, resulting in fewer plants being able to thrive on the forest floor.
More plants grow on the floor of deciduous forests than in coniferous forests primarily due to the differences in sunlight availability and soil nutrient content. Deciduous trees shed their leaves annually, allowing more light to reach the forest floor during the growing season, which benefits understory plants. In contrast, coniferous forests tend to have denser canopies that block sunlight and produce acidic litter, which can inhibit plant growth. Additionally, the richer, more diverse soil in deciduous forests supports a wider variety of plant species.
In general, coniferous trees tend to grow slower than deciduous trees. Coniferous trees typically have a slower growth rate due to their needle-like leaves, which have a smaller surface area for photosynthesis compared to the broad leaves of deciduous trees.
Few leaves fall each year to make compost under the trees. Acid conditions from the conifers do not promote lush growth seasonally as with a deciduous forest therefore there is less to rot over the winter.
Deciduous forests typically have four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. They experience moderate temperatures with warm summers and cold winters. Precipitation is spread throughout the year, with ample rainfall to support the growth of deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the fall.
The higher temperatures and moisture levels in deciduous forests create a more favorable environment for the growth and activity of decomposers, which speeds up the decay process of organic matter compared to in coniferous forests where conditions are cooler and drier.
The average rainfall in a coniferous forest typically ranges from 30 to 60 inches per year. This consistent moisture level helps sustain the growth of coniferous trees, which are adapted to thrive in these conditions. Variations in rainfall can impact the overall health of the forest ecosystem.
The deciduous forest is one that has trees which shed their leaves in autumn. In the spring those tress come to life with new growth of leaves and branches and sometimes flowers.
The temperature in a deciduous forest in spring can vary, but it typically ranges from 50-70°F (10-20°C). As spring progresses, temperatures gradually increase, allowing for new plant growth and the return of animals to the forest ecosystem.
Most precipitation in the Coniferous forest arrives as rain in summer. The average yearly precipitation is 12 to 33 inches.Hope This Helps!~Harlee C.