Question

The two micro-organisms which live in symbiotic association in lichens are

• A. Fungus and Protozoa
• B. Alga and Bacteria
• C. Bacteria and Protozoa
• D. Alga and Fungus

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Alga and Fungus

The correct option is D.

Explanation of correct option:

1. The lichens are formed by the symbiotic association between algae and fungi.
2. The fungal part is called mycobiont and non-fungal part is called photobiont that contains chlorophyll.
3. In this association, algae prepare food by photosynthesis which is utilized by fungi that provides shelter or space for algae to grow.
4. The species of Ascomycetes or Basidiomycetes are the most common fungi in lichens. The common algal partners are either green algae Chlorophyta or Cyanophyceae family of blue-green bacteria.

Final answer: The two microorganisms which live in symbiotic association in lichens are alga and fungus.