6.2 Succession

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

Secondary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where a disturbance has destroyed an existing ecosystem but left the soil intact, allowing for the recovery of the ecosystem.

Front

What type of succession occurs after a forest fire?

Back

Secondary succession occurs after a forest fire.

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 are pioneer species?

Back

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

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 is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas without soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where soil is already present after a disturbance.

Front

Give an example of secondary succession.

Back

Regrowth of vegetation after a forest fire is an example of secondary succession.

Front

What is formed during primary succession that doesn't need to be formed during secondary succession?

Back

Soil is formed during primary succession but is already present during secondary succession.

Front

What role do disturbances play in succession?

Back

Disturbances, such as fires or floods, create opportunities for succession by altering the environment and allowing new species to establish.

Front

What is ecological succession?

Back

Ecological succession is the process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time.