In lichens , the phycobiont and mycobiont are .............and ……....., respectively.

Options

A. heterotrophic, autotrophic
B. heterotrophic, heterotrophic
C. autotrophic, heterotrophic
D. autotrophic , autotrophic

Answer

To solve the question about lichens, we need to identify the two components involved in their symbiotic relationship: the phycobiont and the mycobiont.

**Step 1: Understand the components of lichens.**
- Lichens are a symbiotic association between two organisms: algae and fungi.
- The algal component is referred to as the **phycobiont**.
- The fungal component is referred to as the **mycobiont**.

**Step 2: Identify the type of organisms.**
- The phycobiont (algae) is a **photoautotrophic** organism. This means it can produce its own food through the process of photosynthesis.
- The mycobiont (fungus) is a **heterotrophic** organism. This means it cannot produce its own food and relies on other sources for nutrients.

**Step 3: Fill in the blanks.**
- Therefore, in lichens, the phycobiont is **autotrophic** and the mycobiont is **heterotrophic**.

**Final Answer:**
In lichens, the phycobiont and mycobiont are **autotrophic** and **heterotrophic**, respectively.

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