Question

Which of the following is total parasite :

• A. Cassytha filiformis
• B. Viciuim spp.
• C. Ganoderma lucidum
• D. Arceuthobium spp.

Hint:

The two most famous total stem parasites encountered in tropical forest ecosystems are:
- Cuscuta reflexa (Convolvulaceae)
- Cassytha filiformis (Lauraceae)
Both have leafless, yellowish, vine-like structures that form dense tangles over their hosts.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Parasitic plants are plants that derive some or all of their nutrients from another living plant (the host) through specialized root-like structures called haustoria.
They are classified into total (holoparasites) and partial (hemiparasites) parasites.

Step 2: Detailed Explation:
Let's alyze the parasitic ture of the given options:
1. Total Parasites (Holoparasites): These plants lack chlorophyll and cannot perform photosynthesis.
They depend entirely on the host plant for water, minerals, and organic carbohydrates.
Cassytha filiformis (commonly known as the Love Vine, family Lauraceae) is a classic example of a total stem parasite.
It has pale yellow or orange leafless, string-like stems that entwine around host shrubs and trees, inserting haustoria into the host vascular system.
2. Partial Parasites (Hemiparasites): These plants contain chlorophyll and can perform photosynthesis.
They rely on the host primarily for water and mineral nutrients.
Viscum species (mistletoes, written as Viciuim/Viscum in option B) and Arceuthobium species (dwarf mistletoes, option D) are partial stem parasites.
3. Ganoderma lucidum (C): This is a wood-decay fungus, not a parasitic plant.

Step 3: Fil Answer
The plant that represents a true total parasite among the choices is Cassytha filiformis.