Ecological Succession

What is ecological succession?

• The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, involving a series of progressive changes in species composition and community structure.

• A method of measuring biodiversity in an ecosystem.

• The phenomenon where species become extinct due to environmental changes.

• A technique used in agriculture to enhance crop yield.

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

• Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas without soil, while secondary succession occurs in areas where soil is present but the ecosystem has been disturbed.

• Primary succession occurs in areas with existing ecosystems, while secondary succession occurs in lifeless areas.

• Primary succession is a faster process than secondary succession.

• Secondary succession leads to the formation of new soil, while primary succession does not.

Give an example of primary succession.

• The formation of a new ecosystem on a volcanic island after a lava flow cools and solidifies.

• The regrowth of a forest after a wildfire.

• The development of a coral reef in shallow waters.

• The colonization of a barren rock by lichens and mosses.

What factors can influence the rate of succession?

• Type of disturbance, climate, soil quality, and availability of species

• Only the type of disturbance

• Climate and soil quality only

• Availability of species and human intervention

Give an example of secondary succession.

• The regrowth of a forest after a wildfire has cleared the area.

• The initial colonization of bare rock by lichens.

• The growth of a new species in a stable ecosystem.

• The replacement of one forest type by another over time.

What is the significance of biodiversity in a climax community?

• It decreases ecosystem stability and resilience.

• It contributes to ecosystem stability, resilience, and the ability to withstand environmental changes.

• It has no impact on the ecosystem.

• It only benefits certain species in the community.

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How does a glacier retreat lead to primary succession?

• It creates a new environment for pioneer species to colonize.

• It causes an increase in temperature that melts surrounding ice.

• It leads to the formation of new glaciers in the area.

• It prevents any species from living in the area for a long time.

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What role do pioneer species play in succession?

• They are the last organisms to leave an environment during succession.

• They are the first organisms to colonize a barren environment, helping to create soil and conditions for other species to thrive.

• They primarily compete with other species for resources in a mature ecosystem.

• They are responsible for the extinction of other species during succession.

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How do human activities impact ecological succession?

• Human activities, such as deforestation and urbanization, can disrupt natural succession processes and lead to altered ecosystems.

• Human activities have no significant impact on ecological succession.

• Human activities only enhance ecological succession processes.

• Human activities completely restore natural ecosystems.

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What is the role of soil in succession?

• Soil provides essential nutrients and a habitat for organisms, playing a crucial role in both primary and secondary succession.

• Soil acts as a barrier preventing the growth of plants during succession.

• Soil is primarily responsible for the dispersal of seeds in succession.

• Soil has no significant role in the process of succession.

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