Question

the fungus and alga that make up a lichen benefit each other. unlike fungi alone, lichens are producers. the algae in the lichens produce food through photosynthesis. algae alone would quickly dry out in a dry environment. fungi, these are some of the many types of lichens. christmas lichen, wolf lichen, british soldier lichen, 12. infer how do you think a fungus and an alga evolved to live together? critical thinking

Explanation:

Lichens are a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae. The algae can photosynthesize and produce food, which benefits the fungi. The fungi provide a protected environment for the algae and help in absorbing water and nutrients. This symbiotic relationship likely evolved as it offered survival advantages in various environments, such as the ability to thrive in dry conditions where fungi alone would struggle.

Answer:

They likely evolved to live together due to the survival - related benefits of the symbiotic relationship. The algae provide food through photosynthesis and the fungi offer protection and help with water and nutrient absorption.