In the traditional definition of succession (which may not always be achieved), a climax community is characterized by
A) stability.
B) low diversity.
C) lack of reaction to disturbances.
D) presence of mostly annual plants.
E) developing only after primary succession.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A climax community is characterized by stability, meaning that the community has reached a state of dynamic equilibrium where populations are relatively stable and in balance. This stability is often achieved after a series of successional stages.

Answer: B
 A climax community may have low diversity, as the dominant species in the community often become established through competition and tend to exclude other species. However, this is not always the case, and some climax communities can have high diversity.

Answer: C
 A climax community is not necessarily immune to disturbances, but it is typically better able to withstand and recover from disturbances compared to earlier successional stages.

Answer: D
 The presence of mostly annual plants is not a characteristic of a climax community, as these plants typically have a short life span and are not well adapted to long-term survival and stability.

Answer: E
 A climax community may develop after either primary or secondary succession, depending on the specific circumstances and ecological context.

In the Traditional Definition of Succession (Which May Not Always