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Question #46677
The Question
Read the following statements regarding ecological succession and the impact of biodiversity loss. Which of the following statements is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
Both hydrarch and xerarch successions ultimately converge to a mesic climax community, which remains stable as long as the environment is unchanged.
- B.
During natural succession, there is a gradual increase in species diversity, total biomass, and a shift towards specialized ecological niches.
- C.
The introduction of an invasive alien species during a seral stage accelerates the establishment of the mesic climax by rapidly increasing total biomass and nutrient turnover.
- D.
Alien species invasions disrupt the predicted trajectory of succession by causing niche displacement and the decline of indigenous species.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Species-Area Relationship|Nutrient Cycling|Ecosystem Services
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often conflate 'rapid biomass accumulation' with 'ecological progress'.
The misconception is that because invasive species grow quickly and increase net primary productivity locally, they speed up succession.
In reality, ecological succession requires the gradual establishment of complex, co-evolved native communities; invasive species destroy this trajectory by outcompeting native flora and fauna, preventing the formation of a stable climax.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Ecosystem - Class 12 |
| Concept | Nutrient Cycling Reservoirs |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |