Lichens are composite organisms consisting of a fungus and a photosynthetic partner (algae), growing

Question

Lichens are composite organisms consisting of a fungus and a photosynthetic partner (algae), growing together in a symbiotic relationship.\ Consider the following statements about lichens.\ I.Lichen are very good air pollution indicators.\ II. Algal partner and fungal partner live mutually.\ III. Algae prepares food for fungi.\ IV. Fungi provides shelter and absorbs water and minerals for algal partner. Which of the statements given above are correct?\

Professor PC Thomas Classes · Answer

(d) : Lichen is a structurally organised entity consisting of the permanent association of a fungus and an alga. Algae prepares food for fungi. Fungi provides shelter and absorbs water and minerals for algal partner. Lichens are very sensitive to air pollution, particularly to $\mathrm{SO}_{2}$ concentration in the atmosphere. They die at higher levels of $\mathrm{SO}_{2}$.