Practice question
Question
In the symbiotic association known as lichens, what is the fungal component biologically termed?
Explanation
Lichens represent a brilliantly successful, intimate, mutually beneficial symbiotic association between an alga and a fungus. The NCERT textbook specifies that the autotrophic, photosynthetic algal component is termed the phycobiont (which prepares food). Conversely, the heterotrophic fungal component is formally termed the 'mycobiont'. The fungus provides structural shelter, absorbs vital mineral nutrients, and retains water for its algal partner.
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