Question

Differentiate between autotrophic and heterotrophic succession.

Answer 1

Sr. No.	Autotrophic Succession	Heterotrophic Succession
1.	Early and continuous dominance of autotrophs, such as green plants.	Early dominance of heterotrophs, such as decomposers.
2.	Begins in a predominantly inorganic environment.	Begins in a predominantly organic environment.
3.	Autotrophs manufacture their own organic food using inorganic substances.	Heterotrophs depend on organic substances produced by other organisms.
4.	Leads to the gradual establishment of a plant-based community.	Leads to the breakdown and recycling of organic matter.
5.	Represents primary succession on bare or inorganic substrates.	Often involves succession on substrates rich in organic residues.
6.	Increases biomass by primary production through photosynthesis.	Converts organic material into inorganic nutrients for autotrophs.