Why is the ability to tolerate low resource availability often associated with plant species that dominate during the later stages of succession?

Ecological succession is the gradual process of change in the species composition of an ecosystem over time. This occurs when new plants colonize an area after a disturbance (such as fire or flood) and gradually replace the existing vegetation until a stable, mature community is established.

Succession usually progresses through several stages, each characterized by different plant species. Early-successional species (also called pioneer species) are the first to colonize an area. They are typically short-lived, fast-growing, and adapted to high resource availability and harsh conditions. As succession proceeds, later-successional species gradually replace early-successional ones. These later-successional species tend to be long-lived, slow-growing, and adapted to lower resource availability and more stable environmental conditions.

Resource availability is an essential factor that influences plant communities' structure and composition. During the early stages of succession, resources like light, water, and nutrients are often abundant, allowing fast-growing early-successional species to thrive. However, as the ecosystem matures and plant density increases, competition for these resources intensifies, making them scarcer.

Plant species that dominate later stages of succession often exhibit a higher tolerance for low resource availability. This is because, as the plant community matures, available resources become scarcer due to increased competition. Species that can tolerate low resource availability have a competitive advantage in this environment. They can survive and reproduce when resources are limited, allowing them to outcompete less tolerant species. As a result, these resource-tolerant species become dominant during the later stages of succession.

To tolerate low resource availability, later-successional species have developed various adaptations, such as more efficient resource use, extensive root systems, and slower growth rates. These adaptations allow them to allocate resources more effectively, enabling them to survive in environments where resources are scarce. In conclusion, the ability to tolerate low resource availability is often associated with plant species that dominate during the later stages of succession because these species have developed adaptations that allow them to survive and reproduce in environments with limited resources. This gives them a competitive advantage over less tolerant species, enabling them to become dominant as the ecosystem matures and resources become scarce.