Question

9 multiple choice 2 points a pioneer species such as lichen plays what key role in primary succession? competing with trees for sunlight breaking down rock and beginning soil formation consuming herbivores to maintain balance stabilizing climax communities

Explanation:

Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas. Pioneer species like lichen are the first to colonize. Lichen can secrete acids that break down rock. Over time, this process helps in soil formation. Soil is essential for the growth of other plants in later stages of succession.

• Competing with trees for sunlight: Trees come much later in succession. Pioneer species like lichen are in the initial stage where there are no trees.
• Consuming herbivores: Lichen are not consumers of herbivores. They are autotroph - like (algae part of lichen is autotrophic) or have a symbiotic relationship (algae and fungi).
• Stabilizing climax communities: Climax communities are the final stage of succession. Pioneer species are for the start of succession, not for stabilizing the climax.

Answer:

Breaking down rock and beginning soil formation