Ecological Succession and Ecosystem Development Quiz

Human intervention disrupts natural succession patterns.

Lichen serves as the initial colonizer due to its ability to grow on bare rock surfaces.

Pioneer species are the initial colonizers in barren environments during primary succession.

Algae often serve as pioneer species in aquatic ecosystems, initiating ecological succession.

Succession is the gradual replacement of species in an ecosystem over time.

Climax communities exhibit high biodiversity and ecological stability.

Secondary succession occurs after a disturbance, such as a wildfire, in an area with pre-existing soil.

Primary succession involves the gradual establishment of life in a barren area.

Primary succession often starts with a catastrophic event like a volcanic eruption that creates new land.

Secondary succession happens in areas with pre-existing soil, following a disturbance like a fire or logging.

Secondary succession takes place in areas with disturbed but not completely barren soil.

Pioneer species establish and stabilize the environment, paving the way for subsequent species.

Seral stages are intermediate phases in succession, progressing towards the establishment of a climax community.

Succession enhances ecosystem stability by facilitating nutrient cycling and ecosystem services.

Intermediate communities feature a diverse mix of species without a dominant one.

Biodiversity typically reaches its peak in the climax stage of ecological succession.

Pioneer species play a crucial role in stabilizing the environment, creating conditions for the establishment of later species.