Two different species of plants X and Y live together as if they are parts of the same plant Z. The plant X is an autotroph whereas plant Y is a saprophyte . The plant Y holds the cells of X in its mat of web-like hyphae and supplies water and minerals to cells of plants X . the plant X makes food by photosynthesis and shares it with plant Y
What could plants Z be?

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Characteristics of Plants X and Y:**
- Plant X is described as an autotroph, which means it can produce its own food through photosynthesis.
- Plant Y is a saprophyte, meaning it derives its nutrients from decaying organic matter.

2. **Understand the Relationship Between X and Y:**
- Plant Y holds the cells of Plant X in a web-like structure called hyphae. This indicates a close physical association.
- Plant Y supplies water and minerals to Plant X, which is essential for the growth of the autotrophic plant.

3. **Determine the Function of Plant X:**
- Plant X, being an autotroph, uses sunlight to perform photosynthesis, creating food (glucose) which it can share with Plant Y.

4. **Analyze the Mutual Benefits:**
- Plant X benefits from the water and minerals provided by Plant Y, while Plant Y benefits from the food produced by Plant X.

5. **Identify the Symbiotic Relationship:**
- The relationship described between Plant X and Plant Y is a classic example of mutualism, where both organisms benefit from each other.
- This type of relationship is commonly found in lichens, which are formed from a symbiotic association between fungi (which would represent Plant Y) and algae (which would represent Plant X).

6. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the combined entity, referred to as Plant Z, is identified as "lichens."

**Final Answer:**
Plant Z could be lichens.

---