With reference to lichens, which of the following statements is/are correct?1.Lichens are very good indicators of pollution.2.Lichens grow well in polluted areas.Select the correct answer from the code given below:

1. A

   Only 2

   Only 2. Lichens do not grow well in polluted air; that is why they indicate it.

2. B

   Neither 1 nor 2

   Neither. Statement 1 holds.

3. C

   Both 1 and 2

   Both. Statement 2 reverses the biology.

4. D

   Only 1

   Only 1. Lichens are pollution indicators because they are sensitive and decline in dirty air, not because they thrive there.

Summary. Official key is (d) only 1. Lichens indicate pollution by dying back, not by growing well in it. Also note: Alga + fungus — Symbiosis; the classic lichen pair; SO2 sensitive — Usnea and others vanish near smelters; Foliose / fruticose — More sensitive than crustose; Bioindicator — Also used for heavy metals.