Many fungi are ______ associating with photosynthetic organisms to form mycorrhizae or lichens-

Options

A. Parasitic
B. Symbiotic
C. Photosynthetic
D. Saprobic

Answer

To solve the question "Many fungi are ______ associating with photosynthetic organisms to form mycorrhizae or lichens," we need to analyze the options provided and understand the relationships fungi have with other organisms.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Fungi**: Fungi are multicellular eukaryotic organisms that are heterotrophic, meaning they obtain their food from other sources rather than producing it themselves.

2. **Types of Nutrition in Fungi**:
- Fungi can be **saprophytic**, meaning they feed on dead and decaying organic matter.
- They can also be **parasitic**, where they obtain nutrients from living hosts.
- However, fungi can also engage in **symbiotic relationships** with other organisms.

3. **Identifying Symbiotic Relationships**:
- Mycorrhizae are associations between fungi and the roots of higher plants, where both organisms benefit from the relationship.
- Lichens are formed from the symbiotic association between fungi and photosynthetic organisms, such as algae or cyanobacteria.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option 1: Parasitic** - This does not fit because mycorrhizae and lichens are beneficial relationships, not harmful.
- **Option 2: Symbiotic** - This is correct as both mycorrhizae and lichens are examples of symbiosis.
- **Option 3: Photosynthetic** - This is incorrect as fungi themselves are not photosynthetic.
- **Option 4: Saprophytic** - While some fungi are saprophytic, it does not apply to the context of forming mycorrhizae or lichens.

5. **Conclusion**: The correct answer is **symbiotic**. Therefore, the complete sentence reads: "Many fungi are **symbiotic** associating with photosynthetic organisms to form mycorrhizae or lichens."

### Final Answer:
Many fungi are **symbiotic** associating with photosynthetic organisms to form mycorrhizae or lichens.