The term sere(s) in ecology refers to:
(a) A group of organisms that share the same ecological niche.
(b) A series of successional stages in the development of an ecosystem over time.
(c) The seasonal migration of animals in response to climatic changes.
(d) A specific type of food chain found in aquatic ecosystems.

Question

The term sere(s) in ecology refers to:
(a) A group of organisms that share the same ecological niche.
(b) A series of successional stages in the development of an ecosystem over time.
(c) The seasonal migration of animals in response to climatic changes.
(d) A specific type of food chain found in aquatic ecosystems.

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Sere(s) refer to the sequential stages of ecological succession, where an ecosystem undergoes gradual development from a pioneer community to a climax community.

Succession can be:
Primary: It begins on barren land with no soil (e.g., lava flows, glacial retreats).
Secondary: It occurs after a disturbance in an area where soil is already present (e.g., wildfire, deforestation).

Examples of seres:
Hydrosere: Succession in aquatic habitats (e.g., lakes turning into forests).
Xerosere: Succession in dry environments (e.g., deserts turning into grasslands).
Lithosere: Succession on bare rock surfaces.

Ecology

Ecosystem Succession

Website Link

Test Your Knowledge

Student Resources


M Question 1	⏱ 0
The term sere(s) in ecology refers to: (a) A group of organisms that share the same ecological niche. (b) A series of successional stages in the development of an ecosystem over time. (c) The seasonal migration of animals in response to climatic changes. (d) A specific type of food chain found in aquatic ecosystems.