Eagle fern, horsetail, chrysanthemum grow well in

[amp_mcq option1=”acidic soil” option2=”extremely alkaline soil” option3=”neutral soil” option4=”highly alkaline soil” correct=”option1″]

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UPSC Geoscientist – 2022

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Eagle fern (Pteridium aquilinum) is widely recognized as an indicator plant for acidic soils. It thrives in low-pH conditions where many other plants struggle. Horsetail (Equisetum species) can tolerate various soil conditions but is often found in damp, acidic, or nutrient-poor soils. While Chrysanthemums prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil, Eagle fern is a particularly strong indicator of acidity among the listed plants. Therefore, acidic soil is the most likely common condition where these plants grow well.

– Soil pH is a crucial factor affecting plant growth and distribution.
– Some plants are indicators of specific soil pH ranges.
– Eagle fern is strongly associated with acidic soils.
– Horsetail and Chrysanthemum also have preferences or tolerances that can include acidic conditions.

Soil acidity (low pH) can affect nutrient availability and the presence of toxic substances (like aluminum). Plants adapted to acidic soils have mechanisms to cope with these conditions. Extremely alkaline soils (high pH) present different challenges, such as nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron, zinc) and are favoured by different plant species (calcicoles).

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