A fungus which grows on a host but can also subsist on organic matter is

Options

A. Obligate parasite
B. obligate saprophyte
C. Facultative saprophyte
D. Facultative parasite

Answer

To solve the question "A fungus which grows on a host but can also subsist on organic matter is", we need to analyze the options provided and understand the definitions of the terms related to fungi.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Terms**:
- **Obligate Parasite**: A fungus that can only grow on a host and cannot survive without it.
- **Obligate Saprophyte**: A fungus that can only live on dead organic matter and cannot parasitize a host.
- **Facultative Saprophyte**: A fungus that can grow as a parasite on a host but can also survive on dead organic matter when a host is not available.
- **Facultative Parasite**: A fungus that can live as a parasite but can also survive independently on organic matter.

2. **Analyze the Question**:
The question states that the fungus can grow on a host and also subsist on organic matter. This indicates that the fungus has the flexibility to live in both environments.

3. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **Option 1: Obligate Parasite** - This is incorrect because it cannot survive without a host.
- **Option 2: Obligate Saprophyte** - This is incorrect because it cannot grow on a host.
- **Option 3: Facultative Saprophyte** - This is correct as it can act as a parasite on a host but can also live on organic matter.
- **Option 4: Facultative Parasite** - This is incorrect as it does not specifically indicate the ability to live on organic matter.

4. **Conclusion**:
Based on the definitions and analysis, the correct answer is **Option 3: Facultative Saprophyte**.

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is **Facultative Saprophyte**.

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