In what type of environment does primary succession typically occur?

Primary succession typically occurs in areas where life has never existed before, such as bare rock, lava flows, or regions created by glacial retreat. This process begins on surfaces devoid of soil and organic material, establishing a new ecosystem from scratch. The first organisms to colonize these environments are often lichens and mosses, which can withstand harsh conditions and begin the process of soil formation through their biological activities.

Over time, as these pioneer species die and decompose, they enrich the substrate, allowing more complex plants and organisms to invade and establish themselves. This gradual buildup of biodiversity transforms the landscape and allows mature ecosystems to develop.

In contrast, previously inhabited ecosystems, agricultural fields, and urban environments are more suited for secondary succession, where the soil and some remnants of life are still present, allowing for a quicker recovery and reestablishment of the ecosystem.