Question

Lichens and mycorrhiza are examples of mutualism.
In lichens and mycorrhiza, the organism that provides mineral nutrients to their partner

A. is heterotrophic
B. is eukaryotic
C. has cell wall made up of proteins
D. is autotrophic
E. is prokaryotic

Select the correct option.

• A. C, D and E
• B. A, B and C
• C. D and E
• D. A and B

Answer 1

The correct option is D A and B

Mutualism is a type of population interaction where both the interacting species are benefited.

Lichens and mycorrhizae are examples of mutualism.

Lichens are formed by the symbiotic association between algae or blue green algae and fungi which mutually benefits each other. The algal component is called phycobiont and the fungal component is called mycobiont. The phycobiont, being autotrophic, provides food to the mycobiont. The mycobiont absorbs minerals and water for its partner.

The association of fungi with the roots of higher plants is called mycorrhiza. In this association both fungi and plants are benefitted. The plants provide energy-yielding carbohydrates to the fungi and in turn the fungal filaments absorb essential mineral nutrients from the soil and provide it to the plant.

Hence, the organism that provides mineral nutrients to their partner in both lichens and mycorrhizal association is fungi.

Fungi are eukaryotic, heterotrophic and the cell wall in the majority of the fungi is made up of chitin.

Hence, option d is correct.