What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Primary succession starts from bare rock, so no soil is present at the start. Over time the pioneer organisms (such as moss and lichen) break the rock and as the organisms die and decompose, the soil builds up. 

Secondary succession occurs when in an environment which had a little soil already. It happens when the previous community is lost, such as due to a forest fire

SP
Answered by Sarah P. Biology tutor

45489 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the role of tumour suppressor genes and oncogenes in the development of tumours?


Use the example of antibiotic resistant bacteria to explain directional selection.


What is a zymogen giving reference to an example?


What are the different types of immunity?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences