Lichen is usually cited as an example of symbiosis in plants where an algal and fungal species live together for their mutual benefit. Which of the following will happen if algal and fungal partners are separated from each other?

Options

A. Both will survive and grow normally and independent from each other.
B. Both will die.
C. Algal component will survive while the fungal component will die.
D. Fungal component will survive while the algal component will die.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Lichens**: Lichens are a symbiotic relationship between two organisms: an alga and a fungus. In this relationship, both partners benefit from each other.

2. **Role of Alga**: The alga is responsible for photosynthesis, which means it can produce food using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water. This food is then shared with the fungal partner.

3. **Role of Fungus**: The fungus provides structure and protection to the alga and helps in the absorption of water and nutrients from the environment, which is essential for both organisms.

4. **Separation of Partners**: If the algal and fungal partners are separated, the alga will continue to survive on its own because it can produce its own food through photosynthesis.

5. **Impact on Fungus**: The fungal partner, however, relies on the alga for food. Without the alga, the fungus cannot perform photosynthesis and will eventually die due to lack of nutrition.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, if the algal and fungal partners are separated, the alga will survive, but the fungal component will die.

**Final Answer**: The algal partner will survive while the fungal partner will die.

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