Ecological Succession

What is ecological succession?

• The process by which natural communities replace one another over time.

• The process of human intervention in natural habitats.

• The immediate growth of trees in a barren land.

• The destruction of ecosystems by natural disasters.

Which of the following is an example of primary succession?

• A) A forest regrowing after a wildfire.

• B) Lichens growing on newly formed rocks.

• C) A meadow forming in an abandoned farm field.

• D) Trees growing in a savanna.

What happens during ecological succession when a 'climax' community forms?

• Succession stops temporarily.

• New species rapidly invade the area.

• The ecosystem becomes unstable.

• All plant life dies out.

What is the first stage in the process of primary succession?

• Grasses and perennials

• Lichens

• Shade-tolerant trees

• Small annual plants.

Which of the following represents the climax community in primary succession?

• Bare rock

• Lichens

• Shade-tolerant trees such as oak and hickory

• Small annual plants.

Which of the following best describes primary succession?

• It begins in an area where soil is already present.

• It occurs after a disturbance like a fire.

• It starts on a landscape with no plant life, such as after a lava flow.

• It involves only the growth of grasses and shrubs.

In the process of secondary succession, which species are likely to appear first after a disturbance?

• Climax community species

• Intermediate species

• Pioneer species

• Mature oak and hickory forest

What is a climax community?

• The beginning stage of ecological succession

• The endpoint of succession within a specific climate and geography

• A community that changes frequently

• A community with no dominant species

Which of the following is an example of primary succession?

• Wildfires destroying conifer forests

• New land forming on lava flows in Hawaii

• Meadows reverting to scrubland

• Forests existing near grassy meadows

In which region might you find mature forests existing near grassy meadows due to frequent disturbances?

• Eastern U.S.

• Western U.S.

• Northern Canada

• Southern Europe