$$6\ \mathrm{CO}_2 + 6\ \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} + \text{light energy} \rightarrow \mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 + 6\ \mathrm{O}_2$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes primary succession?

Accepted Answer

It begins in an area with little or no soil and no established living organisms, such as after a lava flow.

Question 2

In the context of ecological succession, what role do lichens play in the development of a new ecosystem on bare rock?

Accepted Answer

They are pioneer species that help break down rock and create soil for other organisms.

Question 3

Which of the following sequences correctly represents the typical progression of plant communities during primary succession?

Accepted Answer

Lichens and mosses → Grasses and herbs → Shrubs → Trees

Question 4

After a forest fire, which of the following is most likely to be the first group of plants to colonize the area?

Accepted Answer

Annual plants and grasses

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why moderate disturbances can increase community diversity?

Accepted Answer

They create new habitats and reduce competition, allowing less competitive species to establish.

Question 6

In the succession of bacteria in milk, which process is responsible for the souring of milk?

Accepted Answer

Fermentation of lactose to lactic acid by Lactobacillus and Streptococcus

Question 7

Which of the following statements about secondary succession is correct?

Accepted Answer

It occurs after a disturbance removes an existing community but leaves the soil intact.

Question 8

A pond gradually fills with sediment and organic matter, eventually becoming a forest. This process is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Secondary succession

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the role of Bacillus in the succession of bacteria in milk?

Accepted Answer

It metabolizes proteins into ammonia, raising the pH and causing spoilage.

Question 10

Which equation best represents the process of photosynthesis carried out by primary producers in an ecosystem?

Accepted Answer

$$6\ \mathrm{CO}_2 + 6\ \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} + 	ext{light energy} ightarrow \mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 + 6\ \mathrm{O}_2$$

Question 11

Which of the following is a likely consequence of dysbiosis in the human microbiome?

Accepted Answer

Imbalance in microbial composition, potentially leading to disease

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why pasteurization does not completely prevent milk spoilage?

Accepted Answer

Some bacteria, such as Bacillus, survive pasteurization by forming spores.

Question 13

Which of the following is the correct order of microbial succession in milk as it spoils?

Accepted Answer

Lactococcus lactis → Lactobacillus sp. → Yeasts and molds → Putrefying bacteria

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the climax community in ecological succession?

Accepted Answer

A stable, long-lasting community that is the final stage of succession

Question 15

Which of the following is a real-world example of secondary succession?

Accepted Answer

Regrowth of a forest after a wildfire

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why community composition changes during succession?

Accepted Answer

Early species modify the environment, making it more suitable for later species.

Question 17

Which of the following equations represents the fermentation of lactose to lactic acid by bacteria in milk?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{C}_{12}\mathrm{H}_{22}\mathrm{O}_{11} + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} \rightarrow 4\ \mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{CH}(OH)\mathrm{COOH}$$

Question 18

Which of the following is a likely outcome if a moderate disturbance occurs in a forest ecosystem?

Accepted Answer

An increase in community diversity due to the creation of new habitats

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Accepted Answer

Primary succession begins on bare rock or sand, while secondary succession begins where soil is already present.

L 2.1: Ecological Succession: Concepts, Processes, and Microbial Examples

Study Guide - Practice Questions