AIIMS2003ZoologyOrganisms and Populations
Which one of the following is a matching pair of certain organism(s) and the kind of association?
Options
- AShark and sucker fish - commensalism
- BAlgae and fungi in lichens - mutualism
- COrchids growing on trees - parasitism
- DCuscuta (dodder) growing in other flowering plants - epiphytism.
Correct answer
B. Algae and fungi in lichens - mutualism
Step-by-step solution
The association between fungi and algae in lichen is regarded as the true mutual relationship, in which both the partners are benefitted. In lichen, fungus lives on the algae which manufactures food by virtue of the chlorophyll present in its cells, while the algae enjoys the protection afforded by the fungal envelope, to live in very dry conditions.