Becomes stable: As succession progresses, the total biomass of the community increases until it reaches a maximum in the climax stage. At this point, the rate of photosynthesis (Gross Primary Productivity) becomes nearly equal to the rate of respiration. Because most of the energy produced is used for the maintenance of the large existing biomass, the net productivity (the excess energy stored) levels off and stays stable rather than continuing to grow indefinitely.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────