View the succession of the ecosystem in the Succession animation. Is it primary or
secondary succession? Explain your answer.
Check these sites about primary and secondary succession.
http://www.scienceclarified.com/Sp-Th/Succession.html
http://ghs.gresham.k12.or.us/science/ps/sci/ibbio/ecology/notes/succ/ex2.htm
To determine whether the succession in the animation is primary or secondary, you need to analyze the characteristics of each type of succession.
Primary succession occurs in areas where there is no pre-existing soil or living organisms. It typically begins with the colonization of bare rocks or surfaces, such as after a volcanic eruption or the retreat of a glacier. Over time, through the accumulation of organic matter and weathering of rocks, the area transforms into a stable and mature ecosystem.
Secondary succession, on the other hand, occurs in areas where there is a pre-existing soil and living organisms, but they have been disturbed or destroyed. This can happen due to events such as fires, logging, or agriculture. In secondary succession, the ecosystem recovers and regenerates through the reestablishment of vegetation and the return of species over time.
To determine whether the animation represents primary or secondary succession, you should look for indications of the initial state of the area. If the area appears to be void of any previous soil or living organisms, it suggests primary succession. On the other hand, if there are remnants of previous soil or signs of vegetation regrowth, it suggests secondary succession.
Since you mentioned an animation, you can observe the following elements to determine the type of succession:
1. Look for signs of bare rocks or surfaces at the beginning of the animation. If there is no visible soil or previous vegetation, it might indicate primary succession.
2. Analyze the starting conditions of the ecosystem. If it appears that the area is recovering from a disturbance and there are signs of regrowth or reestablishment of vegetation, it suggests secondary succession.
By closely observing these characteristics in the animation, you can determine whether it represents primary or secondary succession.