AP Bio Ecological Succession: Bozeman Biology

What defines primary succession as distinct from secondary succession?

• The presence of initial vegetation
• The complete absence of soil
• The speed of ecosystem recovery
• The number of pioneer species

Why are Lodge Pole Pines considered a pioneer species in Montana?

• They grow extremely tall
• They have serotinous cones that open after fire
• They produce the most seeds
• They resist all environmental disturbances

In the ecological succession process, what role do pioneer organisms like Lupine play?

• They permanently establish the ecosystem
• They fix nitrogen and prepare soil for future species
• They prevent other species from growing
• They accelerate volcanic rock formation

What makes the island of Surtsey a significant case study for ecological succession?

• It was created by a volcanic eruption
• It has unique bird species
• It has rapid human settlement
• It contains rare mineral deposits

How do pioneer species typically arrive in a newly disturbed environment?

• By human intervention
• Through underground tunnels
• Blown by wind, carried by birds, or floating
• By deliberate replanting

What characterizes the final stage of ecological succession?

• Constant environmental disruption
• Emergence of climax species
• Permanent grassland formation
• Complete ecosystem instability

Why do grasses and initial vegetation not remain dominant throughout succession?

• They lack nutrients
• Taller species block their sunlight
• They cannot survive in rocky terrain
• They are intentionally removed

In the case of Mount St. Helens, what initially prevented life from establishing?

• Extreme cold
• Lack of water
• Complete ash coverage
• High acidity

How do disturbances like fires contribute to ecological succession?

• They permanently destroy ecosystems
• They create opportunities for pioneer species
• They eliminate all potential for regrowth
• They accelerate soil erosion