Ecology Unit 1 Quiz: Succession in Ecosystems

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What term is used to describe the first species to begin a succession?

Climax community

Marsh pioneers

Decomposers

Pond pioneers (correct)

Which stage in the pond succession process involves emergent plants growing all along the bottom of the pond?

Marsh (correct)

Dry land/grasses

Forest

Shrubs

What leads to the creation of a swamp in the pond succession process?

Growth of water plants

Emergent plants growing all the way across the floor (correct)

Birds inhabiting the pond

Decomposition of pond plants

In the context of pond succession, what do layers of decaying matter on the pond floor ultimately lead to?

Raising of the pond floor over the years Signup and view all the answers

What stage is reached when the land becomes a forest or grassland in the succession from pond to dry land?

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Which term is used to describe the final stage in a succession process?

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What is the main focus of ecological succession?

The gradual replacement of species in an area over time Signup and view all the answers

Which event would most likely lead to primary succession on land?

A receding glacier revealing bare rock Signup and view all the answers

What role do pioneer species play in primary succession?

They break down rocks into soil and create conditions for other plants to grow Signup and view all the answers

How does secondary succession differ from primary succession?

Secondary succession starts with the presence of soil, while primary succession starts on bare rock or barren land Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of natural disasters in the context of ecological succession?

Natural disasters can trigger sudden changes in ecosystems, affecting the progression of succession Signup and view all the answers

Why are lichens considered common pioneer species in primary succession?

They release acids that help break down rocks into soil for other plants Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the living things such as lichens that do not need soil to survive and are the first to arrive in primary succession?

Pioneer species Signup and view all the answers

In primary succession, what helps break down rocks into smaller pieces to begin the formation of soil?

Lichens and weather forces Signup and view all the answers

What type of plants can grow in the new soil formed during primary succession, after lichens and weather forces have acted on rocks?

Mosses and ferns Signup and view all the answers

In secondary succession, where does this type of succession occur?

In areas where soil exists but has been damaged or disturbed Signup and view all the answers

What type of areas do secondary successions often begin in?

Areas with already present soil like clear-cut forests or post-forest fires Signup and view all the answers

What event is usually an example of secondary succession?

A forest fire Signup and view all the answers