How are lichens and mycorrhizae similar?

• A. Both are examples of mutualistic relationships between fungi and other organisms.
• B. Both are parasitic associations that harm their hosts.
• C. Both are formed exclusively between fungi and bacteria.
• D. Both are single-celled organisms that photosynthesize.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key terms in the question: Lichens and mycorrhizae. Lichens are symbiotic associations between fungi and photosynthetic organisms (like algae or cyanobacteria), while mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots.
2. Review the concept of mutualism. Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms involved benefit from the association. For example, in lichens, the fungus provides structure and protection, while the photosynthetic partner provides food through photosynthesis. In mycorrhizae, the fungus helps the plant absorb nutrients, and the plant provides carbohydrates to the fungus.
3. Eliminate incorrect options by analyzing their validity: (1) 'Both are parasitic associations that harm their hosts' is incorrect because neither lichens nor mycorrhizae harm their hosts; they are mutualistic. (2) 'Both are formed exclusively between fungi and bacteria' is incorrect because lichens involve algae or cyanobacteria, and mycorrhizae involve plant roots. (3) 'Both are single-celled organisms that photosynthesize' is incorrect because neither lichens nor mycorrhizae are single-celled organisms, and fungi do not photosynthesize.
4. Identify the correct answer: 'Both are examples of mutualistic relationships between fungi and other organisms' is correct because it accurately describes the nature of both lichens and mycorrhizae.
5. Conclude that the similarity between lichens and mycorrhizae lies in their mutualistic relationships, where fungi form beneficial partnerships with other organisms to support survival and growth.