Large lava flows can destroy all of the plants in an area. However, rock formed by lava flows often has nutrients that are beneficial to plants. Sediment from this rock can enrich soil.

Some lichens are pioneer species that can grow on rocks. How can lichens help other plants repopulate an area cleared by a large lava flow
va flow?
A.
by protecting other organisms from uncovered rock
B.
by destroying organisms that grow before pioneer species
C.
by breaking down rock into small pieces
D.
by providing competition for resources