The correct option is D The gradual and predictable change in species composition occurs in a given area.
During ecological succession there is a gradual and predictable change in species composition occurs in a given area.
During an ecological succession, the numbers and types of animals go on increasing with time. The community that is in near equilibrium with the environment is called climax community. The establishment of a new biotic community is slow in its primary phase but gradually becomes fast in its secondary phase.
Ecological succession is the gradual and fairly predictable change in the species composition of a given area. During succession, some species colonies area and their population become more numerous, whereas, the population of other species declines and even disappears.
Thus, the correct answer is option D.