The Journey of Life: Understanding Ecological Succession and Its Stages

Ecological succession involves changes in a community over time, with primary succession starting in barren areas and secondary succession occurring in previously inhabited areas. Primary succession begins with lichens forming a pioneer community, leading to soil formation and eventually a climax community. Secondary succession is faster due to existing soil and plant remnants, allowing for rapid regrowth once conditions improve.

What is ecological succession?

• A rapid increase in population

• A decrease in biodiversity

• A series of changes in community composition over time

• A sudden change in climate

Which type of succession begins in an area without soil?

• Secondary succession

• Quaternary succession

• Primary succession

• Tertiary succession

What role do lichens play in primary succession?

• They are the decomposers

• They are the dominant species

• They are the pioneer species

• They are the climax community

How do lichens contribute to soil formation?

• By providing shade

• By breaking down rocks into smaller particles

• By attracting animals

• By producing seeds

What happens after the soil becomes thick enough in primary succession?

• The soil erodes

• Lichens become the dominant species

• Shrubs start to grow

• The area becomes barren again

What marks the final stage of primary succession?

• The formation of new rocks

• The appearance of lichens

• The growth of grasses

• The establishment of a climax community

Where does secondary succession occur?

• In areas with extreme temperatures

• In areas with no water

• In areas that once supported life but are now barren

• In areas that have never supported life

Why does secondary succession develop more quickly than primary succession?

• Because it involves only animals

• Because it occurs in water

• Because soil is already present

• Because it starts with lichens

What is not needed in secondary succession that is needed in primary succession?

• Soil

• Pioneer community of lichens

• Water

• Sunlight

What can survive in the soil to aid secondary succession?

• Only fungi

• Lichens

• Seeds, roots, and underground vegetative organs

• Only animal species