In the grasslands, trees do not replace the grasses as a part of an ecological succession because of
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2013 Prelims]
(a) Insects and fungi
(b) Limited sunlight and paucity of nutrients
(c) Water limits and fire
(d) None of the above
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
- Grasses are not replaced by trees in ecological succession because trees consume more water than grasses and can cause water scarcity for other species.
- Moreover, trees are highly susceptible to catching fire, and the fire can spread rapidly.
- Therefore, trees cannot replace grasses as a part of an ecological succession in grasslands.