What type of succession begins on dry land?

The correct answer is a xerosere, which refers to a type of ecological succession that begins in dry, barren environments, typically where there is little to no soil and moisture. Xeroseres usually start from bare rock or sand, and they progress through various stages as life gradually establishes itself. The pioneer species, such as lichens and mosses, are often the first organisms to colonize these harsh environments. These initial species help to create soil and modify the environment, making it more suitable for other species to follow, resulting in a gradual increase in biodiversity.

This process contrasts with other types of succession. For instance, a hydrosere occurs in aquatic environments, starting from water bodies and moving to dry land, while climax community refers to a stable endpoint in a successional series. Secondary succession involves areas where soil is already present due to a disturbance, such as a fire or human activity, and follows a different successional path. Understanding these distinctions highlights the various pathways through which ecosystems develop and change over time.