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

• A. The gradual replacement of species in an area that has been disturbed but still retains soil and some organisms.
• B. The rapid colonization of a new volcanic island by pioneer species.
• C. The extinction of all species in a given ecosystem due to a catastrophic event.
• D. The process by which a biological community develops in an area where no soil or previous life existed.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of secondary succession. Secondary succession refers to the ecological process where a biological community gradually recovers and develops in an area that has been disturbed but still retains soil and some organisms. This is different from primary succession, which occurs in areas where no soil or previous life existed.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the question. Carefully read each option and compare it to the definition of secondary succession. Look for keywords such as 'disturbed area,' 'soil,' and 'gradual replacement of species.'
3. Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options. For example, the option describing 'rapid colonization of a new volcanic island by pioneer species' refers to primary succession, not secondary succession. Similarly, the option about 'extinction of all species due to a catastrophic event' does not describe a recovery process, and the option about 'development in an area with no soil or previous life' aligns with primary succession.
4. Step 4: Identify the correct option. The correct description of secondary succession should include the gradual replacement of species in an area that has been disturbed but still retains soil and some organisms.
5. Step 5: Confirm your understanding by reviewing the ecological principles of succession. Secondary succession typically occurs after events like forest fires, floods, or human activities that disturb an ecosystem but leave the soil intact, allowing organisms to recolonize and rebuild the community over time.