Expert: Dana Krempels, Ph.D. - 10/6/2008

Question
Hello im actually a biology major, or atleast im working on it--this is my first year in college. anyway im about to have my biology lab final and i want to make sure i get a really good grade. I've created my own study guide using the material from class but i have a problem im stuck on. i'm fairly sure i have the right answer but im not exactly positive. i was hoping you could clarify if for me, so that im not studying wrong material.
OK so lichen are composed of 2 major groups Fungus and algae. of course i know that, but which of these produce organic food, and which produce inorganic nutrients. thanks for the help i cant seem to find a clear cut answer anywhere.

Answer
Dear Chris,

I can't do homework problems for you, but I can give you some big hints.

Organic nutrients are produced by photosynthesis.  So which of the partners is photosynthetic?  Algae or fungus?

Neither partner really produces inorganic nutrients.  Both partners absorb those from the environment.  But only one of them can manufacture organic compounds from water and carbon dioxide.  Now I'll bet you know which one!  :)

Hope that helps.

Dana