There exists a close association between the algae and the fungus within a lichen. The fungus [CBSE PMT 2005]
A) Fixes the atmospheric nitrogen for the alga
B) Provides protection, anchorage and absorption for the alga
C) Provides food for the alga
D) Releases oxygen for the alga
Answers
Answer: Option (B)
Explanation: Lichens are peculiar dual organisms produced by the intimate association of two organisms: a fungus and an alga. The association between the two organisms is symbiosis. Both the organisms are mutually benefitted in this association and are dependent on each other. The algal cell photosynthesizes with the help of chloroplast. Therefore lichens are autotrophic. A part of these manufactured carbohydrates are used by the alga in its nutrition, the rest is supplied to the fungal partner. The fungus in turn provides water and nutrients which it absorbs from the soil using the rhizoidal hyphae. Thus both the partners get benefitted from each other. The algal partner is called phycobiont and the fungal partner is called mycobiont.