Question

Khaliland shrubs, as well as a variety of insects, birds, snakes, and small mammals such as mice and rabbits. and Vera are visiting a region of land that is unfamiliar to them. They observe a community of grasses. Khalil claims that they are visiting a meadow ecosystem that, if undisturbed, will remain stable for many years. Vera argues that Khalil is incorrect. She claims that the ecosystem is undergoing ecological succession, and that it likely will become a hardwood forest. Which observation from this region would provide the strongest evidence in support of Vera’s claim?

(A) singed or charred tree trunks along the ground or in the soil
(B) large grazing animals, such as buffalo or zebra
(C) a river, lake, or pond that has very clear water
(D) rocks with lichens growing on their surface
(E) a climate that is becoming slightly hotter and drier

Answer 1

The presence of lichens growing on rocks would indicate ecological succession towards a hardwood forest, as lichens are known to be pioneer species that contribute to soil formation necessary for more complex plants.

Step-by-step explanation:

The observation that would provide the strongest evidence in support of Vera’s claim that the ecosystem is undergoing ecological succession and likely will become a hardwood forest is (D) rocks with lichens growing on their surface. Lichens are well-known pioneer species in succession, they play a role in breaking down rock into soil, which allows for the establishment and growth of more complex plant species, such as grasses, shrubs, and eventually trees, leading to a hardwood forest climax community.