Which of the following best describes secondary succession in an ecosystem?

• A. It begins on bare rock or sand where no soil is present, such as after a lava flow.
• B. It occurs in an area where a biological community has previously existed but was removed by a disturbance, leaving the soil intact.
• C. It involves the colonization of an area by pioneer species that create soil from bare substrate.
• D. It only occurs after primary succession has fully completed.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of secondary succession: Secondary succession occurs in areas where a biological community has been disturbed but the soil remains intact. This is different from primary succession, which starts on bare rock or sand without soil.
2. Identify the key characteristics of secondary succession: It involves the recolonization of an area by organisms after a disturbance, such as a forest fire, flood, or human activity, where the soil is still present.
3. Compare secondary succession to primary succession: Primary succession begins in areas without soil, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat, while secondary succession starts in areas where soil is already present.
4. Evaluate the options provided in the problem: Look for the description that matches the definition of secondary succession, focusing on the presence of soil and the disturbance of a previous biological community.
5. Select the correct answer: The correct description of secondary succession is the one that states it occurs in an area where a biological community has previously existed but was removed by a disturbance, leaving the soil intact.