Question

What are photobiont and mycobiont?

Answer 1

Photobiont

1. Photobiont is the algal component
2. It is a photosynthetic partner of lichen symbiosis.
3. Photobiont contains chlorophyll in order to undergo photosynthesis.
4. Therefore, the main function of photobiont is to produce food for the fungal component in the lichen.

Mycobiont

1. The mycobiont of lichens is a fungus that shelters algae and collects minerals and water.
2. The terms "mycobiont" refer to the lichens' fungal component.
3. Algae serve as food for fungi, while fungi shelter algae and take up water and nutrients from the soil.