What is an example of succession involving the filling in of a pond?

• A. Compression
• B. Dispersion
• C. Fertilization
• D. Succession

Answer: (D)

Succession is the natural process through which ecosystems change and develop over time. In the context of a pond filling in, this process can involve the gradual transition from an aquatic environment to a more terrestrial one, where accumulated sediments, organic materials, and plant growth contribute to the conversion of the pond into a wetland or even a meadow. This type of ecological change is known as ecological succession.

In this particular case, the filling in of a pond typically begins with the colonization of the area by various organisms, including algae and aquatic plants, which can lead to increased sedimentation as dead plant material settles to the bottom. Over time, as more terrestrial plants and larger plants establish themselves around the pond's edges, the water becomes shallower, leading to a further transition toward a different ecosystem, illustrating a classic case of ecological succession.

The other choices provided—compression, dispersion, and fertilization—do not accurately convey the concept of ecosystems developing over time through specific biological and ecological processes, making succession the most fitting example in this scenario.