Pioneer species are the first heroes in nature's recovery story.

These special plants and animals are the first ones to move into places that are empty or have been damaged. This can happen after things like a volcanic eruption or when a glacier melts away.

Here’s what pioneer species do:

• They help make the soil better. They can add nitrogen, which is important for plant growth, or help break down rocks into soil.
• As they grow, they create homes for other plants and animals.
• They help prepare the area so more complex communities can form later.

In short, they are the ones that get the rebuilding started!