What is the incorrect order of steps taken during Informal Consultation under the ESA?

The correct answer highlights a step that is not consistent with the established procedures during Informal Consultation under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). When a project or activity is presumed to "may affect" a listed species, it is typically a sign that additional analysis is needed, which necessitates further consultation.

In informal consultation, if it is determined that a proposed action "may affect" a listed species, the consultation should not conclude at that point, as further steps are required to assess potential impacts. This usually leads to a referral to a more formal process, ensuring comprehensive assessment and compliance with the ESA's requirements.

In contrast, the other scenarios accurately reflect situations where the consultation can conclude based on the findings: if species are present but found to have no effect, if species are not present, or if it is determined that there will likely be an adverse effect necessitating Formal Consultation. Therefore, option D incorrectly represents the sequence by suggesting that a conclusion can be drawn without a proper assessment of the potential effects on the species involved.