Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In the context of secondary succession, which of the following disturbances is most likely illustrated by the regrowth of a forest after a fire?
A
Volcanic eruption
B
Landslide
C
Forest fire
D
Glacial retreat
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of secondary succession: Secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact. It is characterized by the regrowth of vegetation and the gradual return of species.
Identify the types of disturbances: The problem lists several disturbances, including volcanic eruption, landslide, forest fire, and glacial retreat. Each of these can impact ecosystems differently.
Analyze the impact of each disturbance: A volcanic eruption and glacial retreat typically remove or cover the soil, making them less likely to lead to secondary succession. A landslide can also remove soil, but a forest fire usually leaves the soil intact, allowing for regrowth.
Consider the characteristics of a forest fire: Forest fires burn vegetation but often leave the soil and seed bank intact, which facilitates the process of secondary succession as plants and trees begin to regrow.
Conclude that a forest fire is the disturbance most likely to illustrate secondary succession: Given the conditions necessary for secondary succession, a forest fire is the most suitable disturbance for the regrowth of a forest, as it allows for the recovery of the ecosystem without removing the soil.