Describe the process of primary succession

Primary succession is the change in an ecosystem from bare ground to a stable, complex ecosystem. Pioneer species are the first to colonise this bare ground, with adaptations to the harsh, low-nutrient conditions that may include deep root systems, such as Maram grass, or symbiotic relationships, as in lichen, to obtain all the nutrients they require. The presence of these pioneer species increases the organic content of the substrate, facilitating the secondary colonisation, often by grasses, mosses or other fast-growing species. These species introduce yet more organic matter, developing soils that allow the successive colonisation of shrubs, then trees which may develop into a complex, stable climax community.

MR
Answered by Max R. Biology tutor

3357 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the light-dependent reaction in photosynthesis?


What is semi-conservative replication?


Why can water act as a solvent for ions?


How do you structure an answer when describing a process such as the Kreb's Cycle?


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning