Biodiversity & Ecological Succession - Advisory Review

What is ecological succession?

• The process by which the structure of a biological community evolves over time

• The study of how living organisms interact with each other

• The process of recycling nutrients in an ecosystem

• The study of animal behavior in their natural habitats

Answer explanation

Ecological succession is the process by which the structure of a biological community evolves over time.

What is primary succession?

• The recovery of an ecosystem after a disturbance

• The initial establishment of an ecosystem where none existed before; starting point is rock.

• The replacement of one community by another at a single location over a period of time

• The process by which a community reaches its final stage of ecological succession

Answer explanation

Primary succession is the initial establishment of an ecosystem where none existed before, with the starting point being rock.

Which of the following is an example of a pioneer species?

• Oak trees

• Lichens

• Wolves

• Deer

Answer explanation

Lichens are an example of a pioneer species because they are one of the first organisms to colonize barren environments, paving the way for other plant species to grow.

What is a climax community?

• A temporary stage in ecological succession

• The first community to appear in an uninhabited area

• A stable community that no longer goes through major ecological changes

• A community that is destroyed by natural disasters

Answer explanation

A climax community is a stable community that no longer goes through major ecological changes, representing the final stage of ecological succession.

What role do disturbances play in ecological succession?

• They prevent succession from occurring

• They have no impact on succession

• They can initiate or reset the succession process

• They always lead to a climax community

Answer explanation

Disturbances can initiate or reset the succession process by creating opportunities for new species to establish and grow.

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How can human activities impact ecological succession?

• By accelerating the natural process of succession

• By having no impact on succession

• By preventing any form of succession from occurring

• By causing disturbances that can alter the course of succession

Answer explanation

Human activities can impact ecological succession by causing disturbances that can alter the course of succession.

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What is secondary succession?

• The establishment of a new community in an area that was previously uninhabited

• The process by which ecosystems recover after a disturbance. Soil is present.

• The initial stage of succession

• The final stage of ecological succession

Answer explanation

Secondary succession is the process by which ecosystems recover after a disturbance, with soil present. It involves the re-establishment of a community following a disruption.

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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of pioneer species?

• They are usually small and grow quickly

• They create conditions less suitable for themselves and more suitable for species that follow

• They are typically large mammals

• They can survive in harsh conditions

Answer explanation

The correct choice is that pioneer species are typically not large mammals, as they are usually small and grow quickly, create conditions less suitable for themselves, and can survive in harsh conditions.

Why is primary succession slower than secondary succession?

• Because it starts on bare rock where soil must first be created

• Because it involves larger animals

• Because it occurs after a disturbance

• Because it ends with a climax community

Answer explanation

Primary succession is slower than secondary succession because it starts on bare rock where soil must first be created, which is a time-consuming process.

Which of the following disturbances can lead to secondary succession?

• Volcanic eruption

• Glacier retreat

• Forest fire

• The formation of a new island

Answer explanation

Forest fire is the correct choice because it is a disturbance that can lead to secondary succession by clearing the area and allowing new plant growth.