Final answer:
In secondary succession, a lake will accumulate sediments and organic matter from the surrounding recovering ecosystem, particularly after events like forest fires where new plant growth contributes to soil build-up that can ultimately affect the lake.
Step-by-step explanation:
In secondary succession, the lake will gradually accumulate sediments and organic matter, which can ultimately lead to the formation of soil. This process occurs after a disturbance in an area where life already existed and where soil conditions are already present. Secondary succession is seen in ecosystems that were previously inhabited and have gone through events such as forest fires or natural disasters. These disturbances may destroy the habitat, but the soil and seeds remain, allowing the area to regrow over time. The early stages of succession typically start with grasses or small shrubs, and over time, this can include the regeneration of forests.
For example, after a forest fire, new plants will begin to grow amidst the ash, bringing back greenery and aiding in the restoration of the ecosystem. As these plants die and new ones take their place, the leaf litter and other organic materials contribute to the build-up of a rich layer of soil. This not only impacts the terrestrial habitat but also affects nearby aquatic ecosystems such as lakes, where the increased sediments can be observed during events like the spring turnover, which brings sediments and nutrients from the bottom of the lake to the surface.