In lichen, the role of mycobiont is

Options

A. Provides food for the alga
B. Provides protection, anchorage and absorption for the alga
C. Releases oxygen for the alga
D. Fixes the atmospheric nitrogen for the alga

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Lichens**: Lichens are symbiotic associations between two organisms: a fungus (mycobiont) and an alga (phycobiont). The mycobiont is the fungal partner, while the phycobiont is usually a green alga or cyanobacteria.

2. **Identifying the Roles**:
- The mycobiont (fungus) provides structural support and protection to the lichen.
- The phycobiont (alga) is responsible for photosynthesis, producing food for both organisms.

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A**: "Provides food for the alga" - Incorrect. The phycobiont provides food through photosynthesis.
- **Option B**: "Provides protection, encourage and absorption for the alga" - Correct. The mycobiont protects the alga and helps in the absorption of water and minerals.
- **Option C**: "Releases oxygen for the alga" - Incorrect. While the alga does release oxygen during photosynthesis, it is not a role of the mycobiont.
- **Option D**: "Fixes the atmospheric nitrogen for the alga" - Incorrect. This is not a primary role of the mycobiont.

4. **Conclusion**: The correct answer is that the mycobiont provides protection, encourages, and aids in the absorption of water and minerals for the alga.