Question

how do lichens alter the abiotic environment to favor the establishment of other species of plants? they provide energy for other plants. they reflect sunlight to help them to grow. they break down rock and form soil. they are a good food source for pollinators. they do not help other plants to grow at all.

Explanation:

Lichens are pioneer organisms. They secrete acids that break down rocks over time, initiating soil - formation. This soil provides a substrate for other plants to establish roots and grow. They don't provide energy directly to other plants, reflecting sunlight isn't their main role in plant establishment, being a food source for pollinators doesn't directly relate to altering the abiotic environment for plant establishment, and they do help other plants grow.

Answer:

They break down rock and form soil.