Sexual reproductive structures in lichens are produced by

Options

A. Algae
B. Fungi
C. Both algae and fungi
D. Lichens remain vegetative and do not reproduce

Answer

To answer the question "Sexual reproductive structures in lichens are produced by," we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Lichens**: Lichens are composite organisms formed by a symbiotic association between fungi and algae. This means that they consist of two different organisms living together, where both benefit from each other.

2. **Role of Algae**: In this symbiotic relationship, the algae play a crucial role by performing photosynthesis. They contain chlorophyll, which allows them to convert sunlight into food. Thus, algae primarily provide the food for the lichen.

3. **Role of Fungi**: The fungal component of lichens is dominant and is responsible for the reproductive processes. Fungi can reproduce both sexually and asexually, but in the context of the question, we are focusing on sexual reproduction.

4. **Identifying the Correct Answer**: Since the question asks about the production of sexual reproductive structures in lichens, we need to identify which organism is responsible for this. Given that fungi are involved in the reproductive process, we can conclude that sexual reproductive structures in lichens are produced by fungi.

5. **Eliminating Incorrect Options**:
- Algae cannot be the correct answer because they do not produce the sexual reproductive structures.
- The option stating that both algae and fungi produce these structures is also incorrect since only fungi are responsible.
- The statement that lichens remain vegetative and do not reproduce is false, as lichens do reproduce.

6. **Final Answer**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that sexual reproductive structures in lichens are produced by fungi.