NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -A lichen is an organism that results from a mutualistic relationship between a fungus and a photosynthetic organism. The other organism is usually a cyanobacterium or green alga. The fungus grows around the bacterial or algal cells. The fungus benefits from the constant supply of food produced by the photosynthesizer.

Detailed explanation-2: -In lichens, the interaction between algae and fungi is a symbiotic relationship. Algae feed fungi that lack chlorophyll pigments. Fungi, on the other hand, help algae by providing protection and aiding in water absorption. No one is injured in this form of connection, and both parties benefit from it.

Detailed explanation-3: -Lichens are commonly recognized as a symbiotic association of a fungus and a chlorophyll containing partner, either green algae or cyanobacteria, or both.

Detailed explanation-4: -Lichens have scientific names as though they are a species of organism, but actually a lichen is a fungus and an alga living in a symbiotic relationship (both are benefited by living together.) The fungus cannot photosynthesize so it cannot create food from solar energy, but the alga can photosynthesize.

Detailed explanation-5: -The lichen symbiosis is thought to be a mutualism, since both the fungi and the photosynthetic partners, called photobionts, benefit.