oth primary and secondary succession begin with pioneer species that –
change the area and make it safer from predatory organisms.
change the area and make it safer from predatory organisms.
Invade the area so that new organisms cannot be established.
Invade the area so that new organisms cannot be established.
modify (change) the area and allow larger and more complex organisms to appear.
modify (change) the area and allow larger and more complex organisms to appear.
use up all the existing resources and prevent establishment of non-native organisms.
i think i may be taking the same test as you but as i see it the answer is b lol sorry if its too late
Both primary and secondary succession begin with pioneer species that modify (change) the area and allow larger and more complex organisms to appear.
To understand why this is the case, let's first define primary and secondary succession.
Primary succession occurs in an area where there is no previous soil or living organisms. This can happen after a volcanic eruption, the formation of a new island, or the retreat of a glacier. In primary succession, the pioneer species start the process by colonizing bare rocks or soil, gradually breaking them down through their activities. These pioneer species are typically hardy, low-growing plants or lichens that are capable of tolerating harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures or lack of nutrients. As they colonize the area, they begin to modify the environment through processes like weathering and organic matter production. These modifications eventually allow larger and more complex organisms, such as shrubs and trees, to establish themselves.
Secondary succession occurs in an area that has been previously inhabited by living organisms, but has undergone a disturbance that removes much of the existing vegetation and disrupts the ecosystem. Examples of disturbances that can initiate secondary succession include wildfires, logging, or agricultural activities. In secondary succession, the pioneer species are often fast-growing plants, such as grasses or herbaceous plants, that are able to rapidly recolonize the area. These pioneer species contribute to modifying the area by reducing erosion, introducing organic matter, and improving soil conditions. These modifications, along with the presence of the pioneer species themselves, create a more suitable habitat for larger and more complex organisms to establish.
So, in both primary and secondary succession, the pioneer species play a crucial role in modifying the environment, making it more suitable for the establishment of larger and more complex organisms. They do this by breaking down rocks or improving soil conditions, which provides nutrients and creates a more stable environment for other species to thrive. It is important to note that the pioneer species themselves are often replaced by later successional species as the ecosystem continues to change and develop over time.