Question

A volcanic eruption destroyed a forest, covering the soil with volcanic ash and lava that hardened into rock. For many years, only small lichens and moss could grow. Slowly, soil formed in which shrubs and grasses could grow, and then eventually some trees.

Which of the following best describes these changes?

Question 4 options:

secondary succession


tertiary succession


primary succession


quaternary succession

Answer 1

The changes described in your scenario represent **primary succession**. This process occurs in an environment that has not previously supported life, such as an area formed by a volcanic eruption where soil has been newly created from volcanic ash and rock. The initial stages involve pioneer species like lichens and mosses, which help in soil formation, leading to the development of more complex plant communities over time.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

**primary succession**.