Avolcano erupted and destroyed the ecosystems surrounding it. when the lava cooled and new rocks formed, lichen and mosses were the first organisms to begin growing in the area. what important function do lichen and moss perform in a newly forming ecosystem?

a. lichen and moss break rocks into smaller pieces, and their remains mix with rocks to form soil when they die.
b. lichen and moss grow on rocks and form a protective cover that reduces the amount of erosion caused by runoff.
c. lichen and moss increase the oxygen concentration in the surrounding atmosphere, stabilizing the ecosystem.
d. lichen and moss regulate the temperature in the area, enabling more plants and animals to survive in the new environment.