A composite organism contains an autotrophic partner that prepares food and a fungal partner that provides shelter and a

Practice question

Question

A composite organism contains an autotrophic partner that prepares food and a fungal partner that provides shelter and absorbs water and minerals. Which observation is most consistent with its identity?

Options

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It grows abundantly in polluted areas. It is generally absent from polluted areas. Correct Both partners are heterotrophic. It consists of a fungus and a plant root.

Explanation

The organism is a lichen. Its algal phycobiont prepares food, while its fungal mycobiont provides shelter and absorbs water and mineral nutrients. Lichens do not grow in polluted areas and therefore indicate air pollution.

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