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What are the general steps of primary succession?
1. Rock broken down by pioneer species. 2. Soil forms. 3. Grasses take root. 4. Shrubs and trees compete. 5. Hardwood trees form a forest.
What are the general steps of secondary succession?
1. Disturbance occurs. 2. Grasses and weeds colonize. 3. Shrubs and young trees grow. 4. Fast-growing trees develop. 5. Climax community forms.
What are the steps of primary succession?
1. Rock broken down by pioneer species. 2. Soil forms. 3. Grasses and plants take root. 4. Shrubs and trees compete. 5. Hardwood trees form a forest (climax community).
Outline the process of secondary succession.
1. Disturbance occurs (e.g., fire). 2. Pioneer species (grasses/weeds) colonize. 3. Other plants establish. 4. Faster progression to climax community.
How do lichens contribute to soil formation?
Lichens use weathering and erosion to break down rock, creating soil.
What happens if a keystone species is removed from an ecosystem?
The entire ecosystem can change dramatically, potentially leading to collapse.
How does a volcanic eruption initiate primary succession?
It creates a barren landscape with no soil, requiring pioneer species to begin soil formation.
How does a fire lead to secondary succession?
It clears existing vegetation but leaves soil intact, allowing for faster regrowth.