What is autogenic succession?

Autogenic succession refers to the natural process of ecological succession driven by the changes in the environment caused by the organisms themselves within an ecosystem. As species populate an area, they modify the habitat—altering soil composition, light availability, and moisture levels—which can facilitate the establishment of other species. This process leads to changes in community structure over time, often resulting in a more complex and stable ecosystem. Autogenic succession contrasts with allogenic succession, where external environmental factors drive the changes in the community.