Question

The difference between primary succession and secondary succession is that

• A. Primary succession occurs on soil
• B. Primary succession begins with lichens
• C. Primary succession begins with plant species
• D. Secondary succession involves animal species
• E. Secondary succession involves the weathering of rock

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Primary succession begins with lichens

Primary succession creates a pristine habitat. It is a biotic succession that takes place in areas of volcanic eruptions, retreated glaciers and abandoned areas. Since the new habitats are created, soil is generally absent in primary succession and the pioneer species are lichens, algae and fungi along with abiotic factors like wind and water. Secondary succession, on the other hand, is a series of community changes which take place in response to a disturbance such as a forest fire, tsunami, flood, or an abandoned field.

So, the correct answer is option B.