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.

1. The question asks which organisms are most likely to be found surviving on a surface without soil. 2. Fern (1): Most ferns are vascular plants that require soil for anchorage and nutrient uptake through roots. While some are epiphytic (grow on other plants), they are generally less likely to be found on bare surfaces without soil compared to lichens and mosses. 3. Lichen (2): Lichens are composite organisms arising from algae or cyanobacteria living among filaments of multiple fungi species in a mutualistic relationship. They are pioneer species capable of colonizing bare rock surfaces and other substrates without soil. Very likely. 4. Moss (3): Mosses are non-vascular plants (bryophytes) that lack true roots. They can absorb water and nutrients directly through their surfaces and are often found growing on rocks, walls, tree bark, and other surfaces without soil, especially in moist environments. Very likely. 5. Mushroom (4): A mushroom is the fleshy, spore-bearing fruiting body of a fungus, typically produced above ground, on soil, or on its food source (like wood). The main body of the fungus (mycelium) grows within the substrate (e.g., soil, decaying wood), not typically surviving directly on a bare surface without soil. Therefore, Lichen and Moss (2 and 3) are the most likely organisms to be found surviving on a surface without soil.