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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about secondary succession is correct?
A
Secondary succession can only occur as a transition from primary succession.
B
Secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed a community but left the soil intact.
C
Secondary succession does not involve any changes in species composition over time.
D
Secondary succession begins on bare rock with no soil present.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of secondary succession: Secondary succession refers to the ecological process where a biological community recovers and reestablishes itself in an area where a disturbance (e.g., fire, flood, or human activity) has destroyed the existing community but left the soil intact.
Eliminate incorrect options: Review each statement provided in the question and compare it to the definition of secondary succession. For example, secondary succession does not begin on bare rock with no soil present; that describes primary succession.
Focus on the role of soil: Secondary succession specifically occurs in areas where the soil remains intact after a disturbance. This is a key distinguishing feature from primary succession, which starts on bare rock or areas without soil.
Consider species composition: Secondary succession involves changes in species composition over time as pioneer species are replaced by more complex communities. Therefore, the statement that it does not involve changes in species composition is incorrect.
Identify the correct statement: Based on the process of secondary succession, the correct statement is the one that describes it occurring in areas where a disturbance has destroyed a community but left the soil intact.