Question

Mycobiont and phycobiont association is
A. Symbiotic
B. Commensal
C. Parasitic
D. Helotism

Answer 1

Hint:
Mycobiont (fungi) and phycobiont (algae) are components of the association known as lichen. The fungal component here takes the lead and acts as a master. The algal component acts as a serf. When the fungi and algae live together in a mutual relationship , both of them benefit from each other.

Complete answer:
Helotism is a form of symbiosis, where one component is forced to take up the jobs of the other one resulting in some mutual benefit. The mycobiont controls the lichen in most ways. The phycobiont serves the mycobiont by providing its food. The fungal component is helping the algae to survive by providing protection. But this is overthrown by the fungal component blocking the reproduction of the algal component.
The characteristics of the other associations are-
Symbiotic – This is an association between two species that benefits both of them. The resultant symbiotic organism is more efficient in survival than each individual involved. Examples are Mycorrhiza, Crabs and sea anemone, etc.
Commensal – Commensalism occurs when one organism in the association is getting benefited and the other one is neither harmed nor benefited. Examples are Barnacles on whales, Cattle egrets and grazing cattle, Hermit crabs and snail shells, etc.
Parasitism – This association results in favor of one organism and harmful to the other. Typically a parasite lives on (ecto) or in (endo) a host organism, utilizing their resources for food and development. Examples are Fleas, ticks, etc. (ecto), and viruses, helminth parasites, etc. (endo).

The correct answer is option (D) Association between a mycobiont and a phycobiont is Helotism.

Note: There is a difference between the symbiosis and helotism. The association of algae and fungi may also be called symbiotic relationship as in lichen, both mycobiont and phycobiont are getting benefitted. But a more correct option describing their nature of the association is helotism. Since the fungi component in lichen acts as master of the algae component.