NEETBotanyBiological Classification
How do lichens indicate pollution?
Options
- AThey grow in polluted areas
- BThey do not grow in polluted areas
- CThey change color in polluted areas
- DThey emit a smell in polluted areas
Correct answer
B. They do not grow in polluted areas
Step-by-step solution
Lichens are symbiotic associations i.e. mutually useful associations, between algae and fungi. The algal component is known as phycobiont and fungal component as mycobiont, which are autotrophic and heterotrophic, respectively. Algae prepare food for fungi and fungi provide shelter and absorb mineral nutrients and water for its partner. So close is their association that if one saw a lichen in nature one would never imagine that they had two different organisms within them. Lichens are very good pollution indicator