Question

A windstorm in a forest blows down the large trees in one part of the forest. Soon, sun-loving plants sprout in the new clearing. What do you think this area would look like in 5 years?

1) The forest will still be just small sun-loving plants
2) The forest will look like it did before the disturbance
3) The forest will have small trees growing in the clearing
4) The plants in the open space will die because of too much sun

Answer 1

In 5 years following a windstorm, the forest clearing will likely exhibit small trees and shrubs, indicating progress towards the original forest structure through secondary succession.

Step-by-step explanation:

After a windstorm has caused a disturbance in a forest by blowing down large trees, a process known as secondary succession begins. Initially, the area will experience rapid growth of sun-loving plants and pioneer species. Within 5 years, it is likely that the clearing will feature small trees and shrubs, which are intermediate species. These species will gradually lead to the development of a more mature forest ecosystem over time, eventually restoring it to a climax community resembling its previous state prior to the disturbance, although this can take well over a century.

Therefore, the best prediction for what the area would look like in 5 years is option 3) The forest will have small trees growing in the clearing, showing progressive growth towards the original forest structure.