Question

Pioneer species in plant succession arrive at cleared areas to germinate. however, when they grow, the shade they produce makes it impossible for their own seeds to again germinate there because of their shade intolerance. instead other more shade-tolerant species come in, grow, and force out the pioneer species. how do pioneer species ever get their seeds germinate if the parent plants always modify the habitat enough to make it inhospitable?

Answer 1

Other factors found within its environment can make pioneer species still germinate and thrive. Factors like wind, presence of animals, rain, among others, can help in the germination of the pioneer species even if its immediate environment becomes inhospitable through time.