Back
Glossary

Climax community: IB Environmental Systems & Societies Definition

Alistair Marjot

Written by: Alistair Marjot

Reviewed by: Jacque Cartwright

Published

Last updated

Contents

  1. 1. What is a climax community?
  2. 2. Climax Community Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

What is a climax community?

In IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS), a climax community refers to the final, stable stage of ecological succession in an ecosystem, when it has reached a state of equilibrium.

This community is characterised by a diverse and complex structure of interdependent species that are well-adapted to their environmental conditions. The species composition remains relatively stable over time unless a significant disturbance occurs.

Climax communities represent the peak of ecological development, where energy flow and nutrient cycling are efficiently balanced, supporting a sustainable network of biotic interactions. Understanding these communities is important part of understanding how ecosystems develop and maintain resilience.

Climax Community Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Save My Exams has a great range of resources to explore the topic of climax communities in more detail and master other key related terms and concepts such as succession and ecosystem resilience.

Explore our IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS) resources.

Sign up for articles sent directly to your inbox

Receive news, articles and guides directly from our team of experts.

Share this article

Author
Reviewer
Alistair Marjot

Author: Alistair Marjot

Expertise: Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

Jacque Cartwright

Author: Jacque Cartwright

Expertise: Geography Content Creator

Jacque graduated from the Open University with a BSc in Environmental Science and Geography before doing her PGCE with the University of St David’s, Swansea. Teaching is her passion and has taught across a wide range of specifications – GCSE/IGCSE and IB but particularly loves teaching the A-level Geography. For the past 5 years Jacque has been teaching online for international schools, and she knows what is needed to get the top scores on those pesky geography exams.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now