Lichen is usually cited as an example of 'symbiosis' in plants where an algal and a fungal species live together for their mutual benefit. Which of the following will happen if algal and fungal partners are separated form each other
(a) Both will survive and grow normally and independent from each other.
(b) Both will die
(c) Algal component will survive while the fungal component will die.
(d) Fungal component will survive while algal pattern will die.

Explanation

Both algae and fungal species will die . The fungus provides protection holds water and provides place to live to algal partner. Algae is autotrophic and carries `N_(2)` fixation ( e.g. Nostoc ) . Due to this phenomenon of symbioss lichen can grow on barrren rock etc . Algae or fungi alone cannont survive on such conditions.