Question

Choose the correct statement regarding ecological succession.

• A. It is a natural progression of plant types that cannot be reversed.
• B. It always occurs over a short period time.
• C. The rate can be changed by factors such as fire, clear cutting, and lava flows.
• D. It only takes place on freshly cleared or new land such as islands.
• E. The rate is very slow and constant.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

The rate can be changed by factors such as fire, clear cutting, and lava flows.

The process of change in ecological community of an area over time which in turn results in the formation of climax community is termed as succession. The direction and predictable change in the community lead to alteration of the environment. Now the changing environment leads to altered species composition and structure. it can occur on a bare land (primary succession) or in the area where vegetation was removed by any climatic or anthropogenic factor (secondary succession). It is a long and slow but dynamic process in which changes in climatic conditions can reverse the plant types. Any natural or anthropogenic calamity can further hinder or increase its rate. For example, flooding, fire, deforestation can damage the existing vegetation and need the process to start again.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C.