Which of the following best describes primary succession in an ecological context?

• A. The process by which animals migrate to a new habitat in response to environmental changes.
• B. The replacement of one plant community by another in an area where soil is already present.
• C. The gradual establishment of a biological community in an area where no soil or previous life existed, such as on bare rock after a volcanic eruption.
• D. The rapid regrowth of a forest after selective logging.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of primary succession. Primary succession refers to the gradual establishment of a biological community in an area where no soil or previous life existed. This typically occurs in environments such as bare rock exposed after a volcanic eruption or a retreating glacier.
2. Step 2: Differentiate primary succession from secondary succession. Secondary succession occurs in areas where soil is already present and life previously existed, such as after a forest fire or agricultural activity. Primary succession, on the other hand, starts from scratch without soil.
3. Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the question. Eliminate choices that do not align with the definition of primary succession. For example, animal migration and rapid regrowth of a forest after logging are not related to the establishment of a biological community in a lifeless area.
4. Step 4: Focus on the correct description of primary succession. The correct answer is the gradual establishment of a biological community in an area where no soil or previous life existed, such as on bare rock after a volcanic eruption.
5. Step 5: Reinforce the concept by considering examples of primary succession. Examples include the colonization of bare rock by pioneer species like lichens and mosses, which contribute to soil formation and pave the way for more complex plant and animal communities over time.