Disturbances Initiating Primary Succession

May 13, 2024 | by Bloom Code Studio

Primary succession can be triggered by various events, both natural and anthropogenic (manmade).
Examples of events that can initiate primary succession include volcanic eruptions, glacier retreats, flooding with severe soil erosion, landslides, nuclear explosions, oil spills, and the abandonment of manmade structures such as paved parking lots.
These events create conditions where the soil is absent or severely disturbed, allowing primary succession to occur.
Earth movements, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides, expose barren substrates, setting the stage for primary succession.
Landslides and gradual soil erosion, both natural and human-induced through activities like overgrazing, contribute to barren substrates suitable for primary succession.
Hurricanes can uproot trees and expose mineral soil, facilitating primary succession. Hurricanes disrupt vast areas through wind damage, flooding, and erosion.

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