NEET Botany Question (2026) — Solution

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Lichens are a mutually beneficial symbiotic association between algae (phycobiont) and fungi (mycobiont). The algal component prepares food for fungi, and fungi provide shelter and absorb mineral nutrients and water for its partner. Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic association between fungi and the roots of higher plants. Chrysophytes are a group of protists that includes diatoms and golden algae. Sponges are multicellular animals belonging to the phylum Porifera. Answer: lichens