Question:

There exists a close association between the alga and the fungus within a lichen. The fungus

Updated On: Jun 21, 2024
  • provides protection, anchorage and absorption for the algae
  • provides food for the alga
  • fixes the atmospheric nitrogen for the alga
  • releases oxygen for the alga.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and 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.
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Biological Classification

The process of grouping living organisms into categories is called biological classification. The most modern 5-kingdom classification was put ahead by an eminent scientist R.H.Whittaker. The five-kingdom classification is based on the criteria like cell structure, mode of nutrition, body form, and reproduction. One of the most important characteristics of this system is that it follows the evolutionary sequence of living organisms. The organisms are classified into distinct taxa or levels like Kingdom, Phylum, Division, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species. The 5 kingdoms are as follows:

Biological Classification