subclimax

[ suhb-klahy-maks ]

noun

, Ecology.

1. the development of an ecological community to a stage short of the expected climax because of some factor, as repeated fires in a forest, that arrests the normal succession.

subclimax

/ sʌbˈklaɪmæks; ˌsʌbklaɪˈmæktɪk /

noun

1. ecology a community in which development has been arrested before climax has been attained

subclimax

/ sŭb-klī′măks′ /

1. A stage in the ecological succession of a plant or animal community immediately preceding a climax, often persisting because of the repeated effects of fire, flood, or other conditions.
2. See also climax community

Derived Forms

• subclimactic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of subclimax¹

First recorded in 1930–35; sub- + climax