The correct answer is D. Increased amounts of soil from decomposing pioneer species allow plants with more extensive root systems to become established.
During secondary succession, decomposing pioneer plants give way to larger, more complex plant species, such as hardwood trees, due to a combination of factors. One of the primary reasons is that pioneer plants release nutrients back into the soil as they decompose, which helps to enrich the soil and make it more suitable for the growth of larger, more complex plant species.
Additionally, the presence of more complex plant species can create a more diverse and stable ecosystem, which can support a wider range of species and improve ecosystem function. The increased amount of soil from decomposing pioneer species also allows plants with more extensive root systems to become established, as they have more space to grow and access the nutrients they need to thrive.
Learn more about Pioneer Plants here:
https://brainly.com/question/22851039
#SPJ4
Complete Question:
During secondary succession, which of these best describes why decomposing pioneer plants give way to larger, more complex plant species, such as hardwood trees?
A.
Increased amounts of sunlight are able to reach the ground while the pioneer species are decomposing
B.
Increased soil temperatures from decomposing pioneer species help tree seeds germinate more quickly
C.
Increased amounts of decomposing pioneer species remove nutrients that tree seedlings need to grow and mature.
D.
Increased amounts of soil from decomposing pioneer species allow plants with more extensive root systems to become established.
