Question

Lichens show symbiotic relationships between:

• A. Fungus and roots of higher plants
• B. Two fungi
• C. Fungus and alga
• D. Two algae

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Fungus and alga

The correct option is C.

Explanations for correct option:

Option C:

1. Lichen is a symbiotic association between algae and fungi.
2. Alga is the source of food as it can synthesize food for this simple symbiotic association and the fungus absorbs water and minerals for the algae.
3. The fungal component in a lichen is called mycobiont and the algal component is called phycobiont.
4. Lichen grows only in a clean environment and therefore it is also known as the pollution indicator.

Explanations for the incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic relationship between the fungus and the roots of higher plants.
2. Alnus is a fungus that forms a mycorrhiza.

Option B:

1. Fungi are heterotrophic organisms and they do not need a symbiotic relationship with other fungi for their existence.

Option D:

1. Algae are photosynthetic organisms and they can independently live without the support of other algae.

Final answer: Lichens show symbiotic relationships between Fungus and alga.