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 is the relationship exhibited by plants X and Y known as ?

Answer

To determine the relationship exhibited by plants X and Y, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Characteristics of Plant X**:
- Plant X is described as an autotroph, meaning it can produce its own food through photosynthesis. This characteristic is essential for understanding its role in the relationship.

2. **Identify the Characteristics of Plant Y**:
- Plant Y is identified as a saprophyte, which means it derives its nutrition from decaying organic matter. This indicates that it relies on other organic materials for sustenance.

3. **Examine the Interaction Between Plant X and Plant 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 crucial for Plant X's survival and functioning.

4. **Analyze the Food Production and Sharing**:
- Plant X, through photosynthesis, produces food and shares it with Plant Y. This mutual exchange of resources is a key aspect of their relationship.

5. **Define the Type of Relationship**:
- The relationship where two different species live together and benefit from each other is known as a symbiotic relationship. In this case, Plant X (the autotroph) and Plant Y (the saprophyte) exhibit a mutualistic interaction, where both species benefit.

6. **Conclude with the Specific Term for the Relationship**:
- The specific term for the symbiotic relationship between algae (like Plant X) and fungi (like Plant Y) is called "lichens." In this association, the algal component is referred to as the phycobiont, and the fungal component is called the mycobiont.

### Final Answer:
The relationship exhibited by plants X and Y is known as **lichens**, which is a symbiotic association between algae and fungi.

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