Changing Ecosystems Flashcard

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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 glacier 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 where an ecosystem has been disturbed, such as after a forest fire or human activity.

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What role do seeds play in ecological succession?

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Seeds can be carried to bare areas by birds or wind, initiating the process of ecological succession.

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What is an example of primary succession?

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An example of primary succession is the colonization of bare rock by lichens and mosses after a volcanic eruption.

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What is an example of secondary succession?

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An example of secondary succession is the regrowth of a forest after a fire has cleared the area.

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What is the end product of aquatic succession?

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The end product of aquatic succession is typically the formation of a new land ecosystem, such as a marsh or a meadow.

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How does a fire affect an ecosystem in terms of succession?

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A fire can lead to secondary succession by clearing existing vegetation and allowing new species to establish themselves in the area.

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What is the significance of soil in primary and secondary succession?

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In primary succession, soil must be created from bare rock, while in secondary succession, soil is already present, allowing for faster recovery of the ecosystem.

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What is the difference between a pioneer species and a climax community?

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Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize an area during succession, while a climax community is a stable and mature ecosystem that has reached equilibrium.

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What factors can influence the rate of succession?

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Factors influencing the rate of succession include the availability of resources, climate conditions, and the types of species present.