AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The first step in Primary Succession is Nudation. During this step, the ecosystem is cleared by either a natural occurrence or manmade disturbance. All that is left after this event is barren rock. Examples of natural occurrence would be a volcano eruption, landslide, or glaciers melting.

Detailed explanation-2: -Primary succession occurs after a volcanic eruption or earthquake; it involves the breakdown of rocks by lichens to create new, nutrient-rich soils. The first species to colonize an area after a major disturbance are called pioneer species; they help to form the new environment.

Detailed explanation-3: -Primary Succession Volcanic explosions can create new land or sterilize existing areas. Retreating glaciers can have the same effect, leaving only exposed bare rock behind them. Succession that begins in an area with no remnants of an older community is called primary succession.

Detailed explanation-4: -Primary succession follows the formation of a totally new habitat, such as when a lava flow or a receding glacier creates or reveals new land which is devoid of soil or vegetation.

Detailed explanation-5: -Secondary succession, the more common type of succession, occurs on a surface where an ecosystem has previously existed. It occurs in ecosystems that have been disturbed or disrupted by humans, animals, or by natural processes such as storms, floods, earthquakes, and volcanoes.