Four of the Following Statements Correctly Describe Lichens

Question

Four of the following statements correctly describe lichens.Which statement is the exception?  
A) They inhabit harsh environments.
B) They contain a club fungus.
C) They may have preceded the evolution of land plants.
D) They may be a mutualism between an alga and a fungus.
E) They can contain cyanobacteria.

Accepted Answer

Lichens do not contain a club fungus. Instead, they are formed by a mutualistic relationship between a fungus and either an alga or a cyanobacterium. The fungus provides a protective structure and obtains nutrients from the photosynthetic partner, while the photosynthetic partner benefits from the protection and a stable habitat provided by the fungus. The other statements are true - lichens are known for inhabiting harsh environments, including areas with extreme temperatures, high altitudes, and low nutrient availability, and they are believed to have evolved before land plants. Lichens can also contain cyanobacteria, which can contribute to their ability to fix nitrogen from the air.