Question

Lichens are association between: ____.

• A. Bacteria + algae
• B. Algae + fungi
• C. Virus + bacteria
• D. Fungi + moss

Hint:

Remember the labor division: Algae cooks the food (Phycobiont = Chef) and Fungi builds the house (Mycobiont = Architect/Landlord).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A symbiotic relationship is an obligate mutual interaction where two distinct biological species live in close physical contact for shared survival benefit.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Lichens are composite organisms showing a permanent symbiotic association between:
• Algal Component (Phycobiont): This component is autotrophic. It synthesizes food through photosynthesis for both partners. (It can also be a cyanobacterium).
• Fungal Component (Mycobiont): This component is heterotrophic. It forms the structural body shelter, absorbs mineral nutrients, and anchors water from the substrate for the partner. The integration is so intimate that they look like a single individual plant in nature.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Lichens are an association between algae and fungi.