Question

Explain how does a primary succession start on a bare rock and reach a climax community?

Answer 1

The species of organisms that first invade a bare area are called pioneer species. The pioneer species on a bare rock are usually lichens. Lichens secrete acids which dissolve rocks, thereby leading to weathering and soil formation. This paves the way for small plants which hold the soil. They are succeeded by bigger plants, and ultimately, an entire forest gets established. Forests represent the climax community in this succession.