Which type of succession occurs on newly created land?

Primary succession occurs on newly created land because it refers to the process of ecological development that takes place in environments where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or when glaciers retreat. In these situations, the land is initially lifeless and devoid of organic matter, necessitating the establishment of a biological community from scratch.

During primary succession, pioneer species, such as lichens and mosses, are often the first to colonize the exposed substrate. These organisms play a crucial role in breaking down the rock substrate, which leads to soil formation. As soil begins to develop, it can support more complex plant life, ultimately progressing through various stages until a stable climax community is established.

This process is distinct from secondary succession, which occurs in areas where a disturbance has cleared out an existing community but has left the soil intact, allowing for a faster recovery. Zonation, on the other hand, refers to the spatial distribution of different communities or ecosystems in relation to environmental variables, rather than the process of community development itself.