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QuizMultiple Choice

Succession and Extinction — Quiz

Question 1 • TPS EdX Biology

Which disturbance would result in primary succession?

Answer
A
harvesting wheat by using a combine harvester at the end of the growing season
B
the effect of a large herd of elephants on the grasses and shrubs in an area
C
the formation of Surtsey, a volcanic island off of the southern coast of Iceland
D
controlled burning to stimulate the growth of forest trees such as sequoia

Explanation

Primary succession begins on newly formed surfaces that have no soil or established community. Surtsey formed through volcanic activity, creating bare land where organisms can colonize for the first time. Harvesting, elephant grazing, and controlled burning disturb existing ecosystems where soil remains, so they are associated with secondary succession.

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