Ecological Succession: Primary and Secondary

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

The process of replacement of one type of community by another at a single place over time in a predictable series of changes.

Front

What are the two main types of ecological succession?

Back

Primary succession and secondary succession.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

The type of succession that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a glacier melts.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

The type of succession that occurs in an area where soil is present but the community has been disturbed, such as after a fire.

Front

What is a climax community?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of an area that is likely to undergo primary succession?

Back

Glaciers melt and leave exposed rock.

Front

What is an example of an area that is likely to undergo secondary succession?

Back

Land that has been bulldozed and where soil remains.

Front

What is the role of pioneer species in primary succession?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize barren environments, helping to create soil for other species.

Front

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

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

Front

What is a disturbance in the context of ecological succession?

Back

A disturbance is an event that changes a community by removing organisms or altering resources, such as fire or human activity.