1) Primary Succession:
- No previously existing life
- Starts as a result of a volcano or receding glacier
- Starts on bare rock
- Lichens break down rock
- Happens relatively slow
Secondary Succession:
- Previously existing life
- Comes after a natural disaster
- Starts as a result of a forest fire or flood
- Starts with previously existing soil
- Happens relatively fast
Both:
- Plants and Animals adapt
- Pioneer Species
- Climax Community
- Gradual growth
2) Order of Primary Succession:
1. Bare rock is exposed due to some type of disturbance like a retreating glacier or volcanic eruption. No soil is present.
2. Pioneer species, like lichens and mosses, establish themselves on the rock substrate.
3. Pioneer species die and decay, providing soil and nutrients for other plant species like shrubs and small trees.
4. Small and Large trees begin to grow, and the community reaches an equilibrium or balance. This results in a climax community.
3) Order of Secondary Succession:
1. Established climax community
2. Disturbance destroys the community
3. Biota removed but the soil remains
4. Fast growing plants initially dominant
5. Eventually climax community is re-established
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of primary vs secondary succession worksheet.
