Question

Which type of population interaction is found in lichen? Describe.

Hint:

Recall lichen = fungus + alga/cyanobacterium, a classic mutualism example.

Answer 1

Step 1: Identifying the Interaction:
Lichen represents mutualism, an interspecific interaction in which both participating species benefit from the association.

Step 2: The Two Partners and Their Roles:
A lichen is formed by an intimate association between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner (a green alga or a cyanobacterium); the fungal partner provides a protective structure, absorbs water and minerals, and shields the photosynthetic partner, while the algal/cyanobacterial partner uses photosynthesis to manufacture food that is shared with the fungus.