MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTION Which TWO pioneer species help break up rock to create a substrate rich in organic material. Starts the process of creating soil in a newly created environment (CHOOSE TWO) Moss Tree Lichen (algae and fungi an example of mutualism)

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to identify two pioneer species that help break up rock to create a substrate rich in organic material. These species are known as pioneer species because they are the first to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems, beginning a chain of ecological succession that ultimately leads to a more biodiverse steady-state ecosystem.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The options provided are Moss, Tree, and Lichen (algae and fungi an example of mutualism). We need to choose two of these options.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Moss and Lichen are known to be pioneer species. They are able to colonize bare rock and begin the process of soil formation. They do this by breaking down the rock and adding organic material to it.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Trees, on the other hand, are not typically considered pioneer species. They require more developed soil to grow and are not as effective at breaking down rock and creating soil.