Caring for the environment – Clip

Lichens are not single organisms but a combination of a fungus and an alga. They cannot survive independently and rely on each other for essential resources. The alga provides food, while the fungus supplies water, forming a symbiotic relationship.

What is a lichen composed of?

• A fungus and an alga

• A single organism

• An alga and a bacterium

• A fungus and a bacterium

Why can't the fungus and alga in a lichen survive on their own?

• They are too small to survive alone

• They need sunlight to survive

• They lack the ability to reproduce

• They depend on each other for vital resources

What does the alga provide to the fungus in a lichen?

• Shelter

• Water

• Food

• Protection

What does the fungus provide to the alga in a lichen?

• Nutrients

• Sunlight

• Water

• Food

What is the term for the interdependence between the fungus and alga in a lichen?

• Commensalism

• Parasitic relationship

• Mutualism

• Symbiotic relationship