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Multiple Choice
Which of the following factors can cause secondary succession in an ecosystem?
A
Clear cutting
B
Glacial melting
C
Predation
D
Competition
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of secondary succession: Secondary succession occurs in areas where an ecosystem previously existed but was disturbed or destroyed, leaving the soil intact. It differs from primary succession, which starts in areas without soil, such as bare rock.
Analyze the factors listed in the problem: Clear cutting, glacial melting, predation, and competition. Determine which of these can disturb an existing ecosystem while leaving the soil intact.
Evaluate clear cutting: Clear cutting involves the removal of trees and vegetation, which disrupts the ecosystem but leaves the soil intact, making it a potential cause of secondary succession.
Evaluate glacial melting: Glacial melting typically exposes bare rock, which lacks soil. This process is associated with primary succession rather than secondary succession.
Evaluate predation and competition: Predation and competition are natural processes within ecosystems and do not typically cause large-scale disturbances that lead to secondary succession. They influence population dynamics but do not destroy ecosystems in a way that leaves the soil intact.