Primary and Secondary Succession

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 and some organisms still exist after a disturbance, such as a forest fire or flood.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Front

What is the first organism to colonize bare rock in primary succession?

Back

Lichens are usually the first organisms to colonize bare rock in primary succession.

Front

What is the role of lichens in primary succession?

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Front

What type of succession occurs after a forest fire?

Back

Secondary succession occurs after a forest fire, as the soil remains and some organisms may survive.

Front

What is the main difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

Primary succession begins without soil, while secondary succession begins with soil.

Front

Give an example of an event that leads to primary succession.

Back

An example of an event that leads to primary succession is a volcanic eruption that creates new land.

Front

What is a pioneer species?

Back

A pioneer species is the first species to colonize an area during the initial stages of ecological succession.

Front

What happens to species diversity during secondary succession?

Back

Species diversity typically increases during secondary succession as more species establish themselves after a disturbance.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-2

NGSS.HS-LS4-5

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.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4