Question

Is this primary succession or secondary succession? And why?

A. Primary succession - because it occurs in a previously uninhabited environment.
B. Secondary succession - because it occurs after a disturbance in an existing ecosystem.
C. It cannot be determined from the information provided.
D. Both primary and secondary succession can occur simultaneously.

Answer 1

Primary succession occurs on uninhabited land forming new soil, while secondary succession occurs after a disturbance in an already established ecosystem with existing soil.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of ecological succession, primary succession refers to the colonization of living organisms in an area that was previously uninhabited, where soil must first be developed. This can occur when new land is formed, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacial retreat. Examples include lichens and hardy plants that contribute to soil formation over time, eventually leading to a stable community different from the pioneer species. On the other hand, secondary succession happens in areas where a disturbance has altered an existing ecosystem but soil and some life forms still exist. Events such as a forest fire, flood, or human activities like agriculture can trigger secondary succession, often leading to a faster recovery because the soil is already present and enriched with nutrients.