Question

The growth of lichens followed by mosses, herbs, shrubs and trees is an example of _________

• A. zonation
• B. xerarch succession
• C. stratification
• D. hydrarch succession

Hint:

Xerarch succession begins on dry substrates like rocks and ends in mesic conditions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding ecological succession.
Ecological succession is the gradual and predictable change in species composition of a given area over time, starting from pioneer species and ending in a climax community.

Step 2: Identifying the pioneer community.
Lichens are the pioneer species that grow on bare rocks or dry substrates where no soil is initially present.

Step 3: Progression of communities.
Lichens are followed by mosses, which help in soil formation, then herbs, shrubs, and finally trees establish themselves as soil depth and nutrients increase.

Step 4: Conclusion.
This type of succession, starting in dry conditions and progressing towards a forest climax, is called xerarch succession.