Primary and Secondary Secession

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

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.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

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 flood.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

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

Front

How do lichens contribute to primary succession?

Back

Lichens begin to break down rock to form soil.

Front

What is a climax community?

Back

A climax community is a stable and mature ecological community that has reached the final stage of succession.

Front

What role do plants play in secondary succession?

Back

Plants help to stabilize the soil and provide habitat for other organisms during secondary succession.

Front

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

Primary succession starts on bare rock without soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where soil is already present.

Front

What is an example of a pioneer species?

Back

Lichens and mosses are examples of pioneer species.

Front

What happens to biodiversity during succession?

Back

Biodiversity typically increases during succession as more species colonize the area.

Front

What is the significance of soil in secondary succession?

Back

Soil provides nutrients and a substrate for plants to grow, allowing secondary succession to occur more rapidly than primary succession.