Lichen with a branched system but small base is

Options

A. Fruticose
B. Foliose
C. Crustose
D. Symbiont

Answer

To solve the question "Lichen with a branched system but small base is", we need to identify the type of lichen that fits this description.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Structure of Lichens**: Lichens are symbiotic associations between fungi and photosynthetic organisms (like algae or cyanobacteria). They can be categorized based on their morphology.

2. **Identify the Types of Lichens**: There are three main types of lichens based on their growth forms:
- **Crustose**: These lichens form a crust-like structure that adheres tightly to the substrate.
- **Foliose**: These have leaf-like structures and are somewhat loosely attached to the substrate.
- **Fruticose**: These lichens have a branched or bushy appearance and often stand upright.

3. **Analyze the Description**: The question specifies a lichen with a "branched system" but a "small base". This description matches the characteristics of **fruticose lichens**, which are typically branched and can have a small attachment point to the substrate.

4. **Conclude the Answer**: Based on the analysis, the answer to the question is that the lichen with a branched system but a small base is a **fruticose lichen**.

### Final Answer:
Fruticose lichen