Question:

Which of the following Cyanobacteria is found associated with both the lichens and the plants like Cycas and Azolla?

Show Hint

Symbiosis trick: Anabaena = Azolla + Cycas + Lichens (Nitrogen fixer).
Updated On: May 4, 2026
  • Oscillatoria
  • Tolypothrix
  • Plectonema
  • Anabaena
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Certain cyanobacteria form symbiotic associations with other organisms. These associations are important for nitrogen fixation.

Step 1:
Understand symbiotic associations.
• In Azolla (aquatic fern) → Anabaena is present in leaf cavities
• In Cycas → Anabaena is found in coralloid roots
• In lichens → Cyanobacteria like Anabaena act as phycobionts (photosynthetic partners)

Step 2:
Identify the common cyanobacterium. Anabaena is well known for forming symbiotic relationships in all the above cases and also fixes atmospheric nitrogen.

Step 3:
Analyze the given options.
• (A) Oscillatoria → Free-living cyanobacteria $\times$
• (B) Tolypothrix → Not commonly associated with all listed symbioses $\times$
• (C) Plectonema → Not involved in these associations $\times$
• (D) Anabaena → Forms symbiosis with Azolla, Cycas, and lichens \checkmark

Step 4:
Conclusion. Thus, the correct cyanobacterium is: \[ \text{Anabaena} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0