Question

What type of association is shown by lichens (an alga and fungus) in which the fungal component absorbs water and nutrients for both organisms, while the algal component manufactures food for both organisms through photosynthesis?
A. Parasitism
B. Commensalism
C. Predation
D. Mutualism
E. Interspecific competition

Answer 1

Hint: Entities exist in an ecological community that consists of an assemblage of populations of at least two different species that are constantly in contact with one another, either directly or indirectly, within a defined geographical region. Many biological processes in ecosystems, such as the food chain and the nutrient cycle, are dependent on species interaction.
Symbiosis refers to the coexistence of two or more organisms. The symbiotic relationship is an excellent illustration of mutualism in action.

Complete answer:
Option A: One creature benefits from the actions of others and suffers harm, but not necessarily death. The host is the one who suffers, while the parasite is the one who benefits. This form of behaviour is known as parasitoidism, and it occurs after the host is dead. Endoparasites reside inside the host and are frequently referred to as ectoparasites (fleas, leeches). Ectoparasites dwell on the host's surface and are sometimes referred to as ectoparasites (fleas, leeches).
So, option A is not correct.
Option B: The term "commensalism" describes a long-term, tight relationship between two species in which one benefits while the other remains unaffected. A larger host and a smaller commensal frequently engage in commensalism.
So, option B is not correct.
Option C: Predation occurs when one organism hunts another to meet its nutritional needs. A predator is a creature that hunts and kills its prey. A snake, for example, will eat a frog. The predator is the snake, and the prey is the frog.
So, option C is not correct.
Option D: Lichens are a tiny category of plants with algal and fungal components in their bodies. The connection benefits both algal and fungal partners because the fungal component absorbs water and nutrients for both organisms, while the algal component produces food for both creatures through photosynthesis. Mutualistic or symbiotic relationships are examples of this sort of interaction.
So, option D is correct.
Option E: When populations or even individuals battle for food resources, this is known as competition. It's also known as "exploitative" or "consumptive" rivalry. Interference competition occurs when they compete for territory, while preemptive competition occurs when they compete for a new piece of territory and arrive first.
So, option E is not correct.

So, option D is the correct answer.

Note:
Lichens grow on tree trunks, empty ground, and crispy areas. It's also used to make dyes, fragrances, and other cosmetics. Lichens also aid in the conversion of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to oxygen.
Algae and fungi have a symbiotic connection that results in lichens. Both creatures profit from each other in this form of relationship. It symbolises a close, mutualistic friendship. In this relationship between algae and fungus, an algae creates food by photosynthesis, which is then used by a fungus, which then provides the algae with water and nutrients.