Chapter 20, Problem 27A

Summary Introduction

To write:The term that describes a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga.

Introduction:Some of the largest and oldest species on Earth belong in the Kingdom Fungi. In eastern Oregon there is a honey fungus that is so large it's called the "Humongous Fungus." Many of the fungi are heterotrophic eukaryotes. More than 100,000 species of fungi are found.

Explanation of Solution

A lichen is regarded to be a symbiotic relationship between an alga or a photosynthetic partnerand a fungi. Typically, the fungus is an ascomycete but basidiomycetes may also be present in lichens. The photosynthetic partner is either a green algae or a cyanobacterium that provides food to all species.The fungus provides a thick network of hyphae where an alga or cyanobacterium can grow. They only need light, air, and minerals to grow, and lichens can be found in some of the toughest areas.

Conclusion

The symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga is called lichen.