Question

Why are the lichens classified with the fungi?

A) Because they are one of the fungal divisions


B) The algal component needs the fungal component to survive


C) They have similar structure to fungi


D) The fungal component of the lichen apparently cannot survive without the algae.

Answer 1

Lichens are classified with the fungi because of their symbiotic relationship with a fungal partner and a photosynthetic organism. The fungus provides minerals and protection, while the algal component supplies carbon and energy through photosynthesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lichens are classified with the fungi because they have a symbiotic relationship with a photosynthetic organism (an alga or a cyanobacterium) and a fungal partner. The fungal component of the lichen supplies minerals and protection, while the algal component provides carbon and energy through photosynthesis. Neither the fungus nor the algal component can survive alone outside of this symbiotic relationship, making lichens a unique combination of two organisms.