Earliest settlers on barren lands or the farmers of nature are

Options

A. Diatoms
B. Lichens
C. Moss and grasses
D. Ferns

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the earliest settlers on barren lands, often referred to as the "farmers of nature." This implies we are looking for organisms that can colonize and thrive in harsh, uninhabitable environments.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are:
- A) Diatoms
- B) Lichens
- C) Moss and Grasses
- D) Ferns

3. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Diatoms**: These are microscopic algae that primarily inhabit aquatic environments. They are not typically found on barren lands.
- **Lichens**: Lichens are a symbiotic association between fungi and algae. They are known for their ability to grow on bare rocks and are often the first organisms to colonize barren areas. They play a crucial role in soil formation.
- **Moss and Grasses**: Mosses are bryophytes that can grow in moist environments, while grasses are angiosperms that typically require some soil to grow. They do not usually colonize barren lands first.
- **Ferns**: Ferns are pteridophytes that require more developed soil and conditions to thrive, making them unsuitable as the earliest settlers on barren lands.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, lichens are the correct answer as they are the pioneers that initiate the process of soil formation on barren rocks, allowing other plants to eventually grow.

5. **Final Answer**: The earliest settlers on barren lands or the farmers of nature are **Lichens** (Option B).

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