Question

How do Lichens contribute to primary succession?

Answer 1

A biological succession which takes place when a new land is formed from a lifeless area where life can now be sustained is called a Primary Succession. They may take place after the eruption of volcanoes.

Complete answer:
Species that arrive first in the newly formed ecosystem are considered pioneer species, and they establish a simple initial biological community through their interactions. When new species arrive, this group becomes more complex.
The first species to colonize bare rock are usually lichens. In primary succession, they are thus the pioneer organisms.

Before they can colonize an environment, many organisms need soil. Acids that break down the rock and start the process of soil formation are secreted by lichens that colonize bare rock. They provide organic matter to the soil when they die. Mosses will then colonize the thin soil; the soil thickens further when moses die, other hardy species to colonize that land.

This system repeats itself numerous times in succession. New species move into an area at each point, often due to environmental modifications made by the preceding species, and can replace their predecessors. The community can at some point enter a relatively stable state and avoid varying in composition. The century-long process continues, forming a mature forest at last.

Note: 1)A lichen is composed of algae and fungi living in a symbiotic relationship.
2)They majorly grow on undisturbed surfaces like tree barks and rocks.
3)Lichens help in improving the soil, thus sustaining life there.