Describe the role of fungus and alga in lichens

The symbiotic relationship between an algae and a fungus is known as lichens. They are considered to be hybrid. Two parts of lichen are :

• Phycobiont : It refers to the algal component of the lichen. Algae prepare food for Fungi due to presence of chlorophyll.

• Mycobiont : It refers to the fungal component of lichen. Fungus provides shelter to algae and absorbs water and nutrients from the soil.