Question

Pinus seeds cannot germinate and establish in the absence of

• A. bacteria
• B. blue green algae
• C. fungi
• D. cyanobacteria

Answer 1

The correct option is C fungi

The roots of Pinus plant have symbiotic association with fungi. Symbiotic association is the interaction between two organisms in which both are mutually benefited.

Thus seeds of Pinus cannot germinate in the absence of fungi. The association of fungi with roots of higher plants is called mycorrhiza and this association is mutually beneficial to both.

The plant provides shelter and nourishment to fungi while the fungi absorbs water and minerals for the plant. Several bacteria live in symbiotic association with other organisms. Cyanobacteria form a symbiotic relationship with fungi which constitute the lichens. Cyanobacteria is also known as blue-green algae.