primary succession
What primary succession means in Biology A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of primary succession
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain primary succession in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Begins on newly exposed land with no soil, like bare rock or blown sand, from colonisation by pioneer species to climax community.
Topics that use primary succession
- Populations in ecosystems (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- abiotic components
- abiotic factors
- belt transect
- community
- competitive exclusion
- conflicting human needs
- Conservation
- correlation not causation
Using primary succession in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge