Primary and Secondary Succession Flashcard

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What is primary succession?

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The process of ecological succession that occurs in an area that has never been colonized before.

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What is secondary succession?

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The process of ecological succession that occurs in a previously inhabited but disturbed or destroyed area.

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What are pioneer species?

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Species that are the first to colonize previously uninhabited land, initiating the process of primary succession.

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What is the role of pioneer species in primary succession?

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Pioneer species help initiate and facilitate the process of primary succession.

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What are the stages of primary succession?

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1. Pioneer species colonize 2. Mosses and lichens break down rocks 3. Grasses and small plants grow 4. Shrubs and small trees establish 5. Larger trees and diverse ecosystem develop.

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What factors initiate primary succession?

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Disturbances or absence of soil.

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What is ecological succession?

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The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time.

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What is a climax community?

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A stable and mature community that undergoes little change in species composition.

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How does secondary succession differ from primary succession?

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Secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but soil and some organisms still remain.

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

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Forest fires, hurricanes, and human activities like farming.