Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of pioneer species? a. They are the first to colonize a new habitat. b. They are typically small and fast-reproducing. c. They require rich soil conditions to thrive. d. They help improve the habitat for other species.

Pioneer species are the heroes of ecological succession! They are typically hardy organisms, like lichens and mosses, that arrive first in barren environments, helping to create a hospitable habitat. They can thrive in challenging conditions and are not picky eaters when it comes to soil quality—they actually don’t require rich soil to make their magic happen! These amazing species not only kickstart the process of ecosystem development but also aid in soil formation. As they break down rocks and add organic matter through their life cycles, they pave the way for more complex plants and animals to thrive. So, they’re definitely not waiting around for fancy soil conditions; they prefer to roll up their sleeves and get the job done!