Final answer:
The false statement regarding the pattern of ecological succession is 'E. Total biomass tends to decrease.' During succession, total biomass generally increases as the ecosystem evolves from pioneer to climax community.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question concerns the general pattern of ecological succession, which is a process that describes the development of an ecosystem over time, from a recently disturbed terrestrial site to a stable, self-sustaining forest community. The option that is NOT true of this process is 'E. Total biomass tends to decrease.' During succession, as the ecosystem matures from pioneer species to a climax community, the total biomass typically increases, not decreases. Biomass refers to the total mass of living organisms in a given area, and during succession, there is generally an overall increase as the vegetation becomes more established and complex.
- A decrease in the number of grass species occurs as succession progresses and more competitive species take over.
- Shade-loving tree species become dominant in the climax community because these species are well-adapted to the stable conditions of the mature forest.
- Pioneer species give way to perennial, long-lived species as conditions become more favorable for those that live longer and grow slower.
- Carbon that is involved in photosynthesis increases as plant biomass and productivity of the ecosystem increase over time.