Lichens represent the symbiotic relationships between algae and fungi.

Lichens represent the symbiotic relationships between algae and fungi. The algae component present in lichen is best known as

mycobiont
phycobiont
prion
symbiont
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CISF-AC-EXE – 2024
The correct answer is B) phycobiont.
Lichens are composite organisms resulting from the symbiotic association between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, usually an alga or cyanobacterium. The fungal component is called the mycobiont, and the photosynthetic algal or cyanobacterial component is called the phycobiont.
In the lichen symbiosis, the fungus typically provides structure, protection, and absorbs water and minerals, while the phycobiont produces food through photosynthesis. This mutualistic relationship allows lichens to survive in harsh environments where neither partner could thrive alone. A prion is a misfolded protein that can cause disease. Symbiont is a general term for an organism involved in a symbiotic relationship.
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