Unit 5 Flashcard Review

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the ecological process that occurs in an area with no soil, where life begins to develop from bare rock or other lifeless surfaces.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

Secondary succession is the ecological process that occurs in an area where soil is already present, typically following a disturbance that disrupts the existing ecosystem.

Front

What is a climax community?

Back

A climax community is a stable and mature ecological community that has reached its greatest growing potential, characterized by a diverse array of species.

Front

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

Primary succession occurs in areas with no soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where soil is already present.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize previously uninhabited or disturbed environments, playing a crucial role in the process of ecological succession.

Front

What role do disturbances play in ecological succession?

Back

Disturbances, such as fires or floods, can reset ecological succession by creating opportunities for secondary succession to occur.

Front

What is the significance of El Niño and La Niña?

Back

El Niño and La Niña are climate patterns that influence global weather, particularly affecting rainfall and temperature patterns worldwide.

Front

How does primary succession begin?

Back

Primary succession begins with the colonization of bare rock or lifeless surfaces by pioneer species, which help to create soil over time.

Front

What is an example of a disturbance that can lead to secondary succession?

Back

An example of a disturbance that can lead to secondary succession is a forest fire that clears out vegetation but leaves the soil intact.

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, involving a series of stages from pioneer species to a climax community.