Succession & Biodiversity

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What is primary succession?

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Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacial retreat.

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What is secondary succession?

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Secondary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where soil is present but has been disturbed, such as after a forest fire or human activities.

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What are pioneer species?

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Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize a barren environment in primary succession, such as mosses and lichens.

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What is logistical growth?

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Logistical growth is a model of population growth that describes how a population grows rapidly at first and then levels off as it approaches the carrying capacity of its environment.

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What role do lichens play in primary succession?

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Lichens help to break down rock into soil, making it possible for other plants to grow in primary succession.

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What is the carrying capacity of an ecosystem?

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The carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can support sustainably.

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How does a volcanic eruption lead to primary succession?

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A volcanic eruption creates new land with bare rock, which undergoes primary succession as organisms gradually colonize the area.

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What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

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Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas without soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing ecosystem but left the soil intact.

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What are some examples of disturbances that can lead to secondary succession?

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Examples of disturbances include forest fires, hurricanes, and human activities like farming or logging.

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How do ecosystems recover after a disturbance?

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Ecosystems recover through the process of succession, where species gradually re-establish themselves over time.