Which term describes the initial development of life on newly formed land by volcanoes?

The term that describes the initial development of life on newly formed land by volcanoes is primary succession. This process occurs when an ecosystem starts from a barren or lifeless landscape, such as land formed from volcanic eruptions, where soil has not yet developed.

In primary succession, pioneer species, such as lichens and mosses, are typically the first organisms to colonize the area. These organisms can survive in harsh conditions and contribute to soil formation by breaking down rock and accumulating organic material. Over time, as the soil improves, more complex plants and animal species can establish themselves, leading to a more diverse ecosystem.

This process is distinctive from secondary succession, which occurs in areas where an existing ecosystem has been disturbed but where soil and some organisms still remain. Climactic succession involves the gradual progression toward a stable ecosystem over time, while reconstructive succession is not a widely used term in ecological studies. Understanding primary succession highlights the resilience of life and the gradual process of ecosystem renewal in challenging environments.