Final answer:
Fungi and protozoans can have various interactions, from competition to mutualistic relationships. Fungi often form symbiotic relationships with plants and algae, while some protozoans assist termites in digesting cellulose.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between a fungus and a protozoan can be varied, including competitive, parasitic, decomposive, or symbiotic, depending on the specific fungi and protozoans involved. Fungi, such as those forming mycorrhizal associations with plant roots or lichen with photosynthetic organisms, may establish mutualistic relationships. In contrast, parasitic fungi extract nutrients from their hosts, often causing illness.
Notably, certain termite species have a mutualistic relationship with protozoa in their guts that helps them to digest cellulose. Furthermore, both fungi and some fungus-like protozoans serve as decomposers, playing a critical role in nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Therefore, while fungi and protozoans can be competitors for resources, they can also engage in beneficial associations with other organisms, including each other.