Question

In lichens, sexual reproduction belongs to
A. Fungi partner only
B. Algae partner only
C. Both A and B
D. None of these

Answer 1

Hint: Sexual reproduction: It is a type of reproduction in which offsprings are produced by two parents with the involvement of gametes. Lichen are the organisms that are having a symbiotic association with the algae and the fungi. Lichens are good pollution indicators.

Complete answer: Lichen is a composite organism that emerges from algae or cyanobacteria living among the filaments (hyphae) of the fungi in a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship.
It is a mutually useful association between algae and fungi.
Phycobiont: The algal component of this association is known as phycobiont. It is an autotrophic component.
Mycobiont: The fungal component of this association is known as mycobiont. It is a heterotrophic component.
An alga helps in the preparation of food for the fungi and in return fungi provide the shelter and absorb some minerals and nutrients and water from the soil for its algae partner. The fungi are involved in sexual reproduction. It is involved in sexual reproduction with the help of reproductive structures called apothecia. Apothecia are a wide, open, and saucer-shaped or cup-shaped fruiting body. It is sessile and fleshy in nature.
The structure of these apothecia is made of three parts:
1. Hypothecium
2. Hymenium
3. Excipulum
The asci are present in the structure known as hymenium. Each ascus contains six to eight ascospores. Asci are freely exposed at maturity.
So, the correct option is option A. Fungi partner only

Note: The ascocarp is classified according to its placement. It is called epigeous if it grows above ground, as with the morels, while underground ascocarps, such as truffles, are termed hypogeous. Apothecia can be relatively large and fleshy, whereas the others are microscopic—about the size of flecks of ground pepper.