Conservation of habitats frequently involves management of succession
Left alone, most habitats change over time until a dense climax community takes over. Conservationists actively intervene to hold a habitat at an earlier stage, protecting species that would otherwise disappear.
Real World
The RSPB manages heathland at Arne in Dorset by controlled burning and grazing to prevent succession to woodland, preserving habitat for endangered Dartford warblers and smooth snakes.
Exam Focus
Name a specific management technique (grazing, mowing, burning) and explain how it prevents climax community forming.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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