Lichen is an example of :

Options

A. Mutualism
B. Commensalism
C. Predation
D. Competions

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Lichen**: Lichen is not a single organism but a symbiotic association between two different organisms: a fungus and an algae.

2. **Identifying the Organisms**: In this association, the fungus and algae work together. The algae are photosynthetic organisms that produce food through photosynthesis.

3. **Mutual Benefits**: The algae provide sugars produced during photosynthesis to the fungus. In return, the fungus supplies essential nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus to the algae, which it absorbs from the soil.

4. **Defining Mutualism**: This interaction is classified as mutualism because both organisms benefit from the relationship. The fungus receives food, and the algae receive nutrients.

5. **Eliminating Other Options**:
- **Commensalism**: This type of relationship benefits one species while the other is neither helped nor harmed. This does not apply to lichen.
- **Predation**: In predation, one species benefits at the expense of another. This is not the case with lichen.
- **Competition**: In competition, both species are harmed as they compete for the same resources. This does not describe the lichen relationship.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer is that lichen is an example of mutualism.

**Final Answer**: Lichen is an example of mutualism.

---