ECOLOGY
ORGANISMS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
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Question
[CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
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Lichens decompose organic matter from animals and plants
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Lichens begin to break down rock to form soil
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Lichens are nitrogen fixing bacteria
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Lichens convert carbohydrates into fossil fuels.
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Detailed explanation-1: -When lichens die, they decompose, adding small amounts of organic matter to the rock to make soil.
Detailed explanation-2: -Lichens are considered as pioneer species in primary succession on rocks because they can easily grow on rocks where other plants cannot grow. They produce oxalic acid which induced the weathering of rocks and thus soil is formed.
Detailed explanation-3: -As lichens colonize, they trap dust, which plays a role in soil formation. Lichens contribute to the nitrogen cycle by converting the nitrogen in the air into nitrates that help in their growth and development.
Detailed explanation-4: -This process is called primary succession. It begins with organisms such as lichens that can live and grow very slowly on bare rock. Lichens (see the Fungi station) break down rock by secreting acids. The freeze-thaw cycle of winter also contributes to rock destruction.
Detailed explanation-5: -Primary succession begins with soil formation. The first stage of succession involves pioneer species. In primary succession, pioneer plants are those that can grow without soil, such as lichens. Lichens begin breaking down a rock.