Refer to the diagram, showing changes occurring during succession as the glacier in Glacier Bay, Alaska, melted over the past 200 years. The moraines, or gravel deposits exposed by the retreating glacier, increase in age of exposure from left to right.Which statement best describes how the vegetation changes during succession?
A) It increases in abundance but is less able to form new soil.
B) It becomes increasingly more abundant, diverse, and longer-lived.
C) It begins with great diversity and becomes less diverse over time.
D) Species at each age become increasingly less able to compete.
E) Species at earlier stages live longer than those at later stages.

Question

Refer to the diagram, showing changes occurring during succession as the glacier in Glacier Bay, Alaska, melted over the past 200 years.   The moraines, or gravel deposits exposed by the retreating glacier, increase in age of exposure from left to right.Which statement best describes how the vegetation changes during succession?
A) It increases in abundance but is less able to form new soil. 
B) It becomes increasingly more abundant, diverse, and longer-lived. 
C) It begins with great diversity and becomes less diverse over time. 
D) Species at each age become increasingly less able to compete. 
E) Species at earlier stages live longer than those at later stages.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The diagram shows an increase in vegetation abundance, diversity, and longevity over time as the glacier retreats and exposes new land. This is a typical pattern of succession, where new and more complex ecosystems develop over time.

Refer to the Diagram, Showing Changes Occurring During Succession as the Glacier