Which type of succession begins after a major environmental disturbance?

Secondary succession occurs in ecosystems that have been disturbed but still retain some soil and biological activity. This type of succession typically follows events such as forest fires, flooding, or agricultural practices where the disruption allows for the re-establishment of a community. Because the soil and some organisms often remain intact, recovery happens more quickly compared to primary succession, where life must start from bare rock or newly formed areas devoid of soil.

In contrast, primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat. Climactic succession refers to the idea of a community reaching a stable climax state, often being a theoretical concept rather than an observable process. Ecological succession, as a more general term, encompasses both primary and secondary succession, rather than specifying instances where disturbance has occurred. Understanding these distinctions is essential for comprehending how ecosystems recover and thrive after disturbances.