In the nature, which of the following is/are most likely to be found surviving on a surface without soil?

1. Fern
2. Lichen
3. Moss
4. Mushroom Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Ferns are vascular plants that reproduce via spores and require indirect sunlight, moist soil with good drainage, and high organic content. Therefore, ferns are unlikely to survive on a surface without soil.

Lichens are a symbiotic partnership between a fungus and an alga. They only need an undisturbed surface, time, and clean air and can grow on various surfaces like bark, wood, mosses, rock, soil, peat, glass, metal, plastic, and cloth. Thus, lichens can survive on a surface without soil.

Mosses are non-flowering plants that produce spores and have stems and leaves but no true roots. They require shade and moisture to thrive. Therefore, mosses can also survive on a surface without soil.

Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi, typically growing above ground on soil or their food source and can be cultivated hydroponically. Thus, mushrooms are less likely to be found surviving on a surface without soil naturally.

Statement 1 is not correct. Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 4 is not correct. Hence, option C is correct.