Question

Which of the following is the correct sequence of xerarch succession?

(a) Forest → Shrubs → Herbs → Mosses → Lichens

(b) Shrubs → Herbs → Mosses → Forest → Lichens

(c) Lichens → Mosses → Herbs → Shrubs → Forest

(d) Lichens → Mosses → Shrubs → Forest → Herbs

I have been asked this question in an interview.

This interesting question is from Ecosystem topic in portion Ecosystem of Biology – Class 12

Answer 1

Correct option is (c) Lichens → Mosses → Herbs → Shrubs → Forest

For explanation I would say: The sequence of successional stages occurring on bare rocks is known as xerarch succession. It mostly starts with the invasion of lichens and ends with the formation of the forest. The pioneering species grow with time leading to a formation of a climax community called a forest.