Parasitic plants

Parasitic plants are species that derive some or all of their nutrients from other plants, known as hosts. Unlike typical plants that make their own food through photosynthesis, parasitic plants attach to their host's stems or roots using specialized structures called haustoria. These haustoria penetrate the host tissue to access water, minerals, and sometimes sugars. While some parasitic plants rely heavily on their hosts and may even hinder their growth, others are more independent. Examples include mistletoe and dodder. They play unique roles in ecosystems, often influencing plant community dynamics and nutrient cycling.