Understanding Parasitic Plants

What is the primary role of autotrophs in a food chain?

• They provide shelter for animals.

• They decompose organic matter.

• They produce their own food.

• They consume other organisms.

Why do Venus fly-traps consume animals?

• To reproduce more effectively.

• To obtain nutrients not available in their soil.

• To gain energy through photosynthesis.

• To protect themselves from predators.

What defines a parasitic plant?

• A plant that grows in water.

• A plant that relies on another plant or fungi for nutrients.

• A plant that consumes insects.

• A plant that produces its own food.

How many species of parasitic plants are known to exist?

• More than 4,000

• About 400

• Approximately 1,000

• Less than 100

Why do hemiparasitic plants parasitize other plants?

• To protect themselves from herbivores.

• To increase their growth rate.

• To avoid photosynthesis.

• To efficiently gather resources already synthesized by the host.

What is a characteristic feature of holoparasitic plants?

• They are capable of photosynthesis.

• They lack chlorophyll and may have unusual colors.

• They grow only in aquatic environments.

• They have well-developed root systems.

What structure do parasitic plants use to extract nutrients from their host?

• Chloroplast

• Stomata

• Rhizome

• Haustorium

How do parasitic plants affect their host plants?

• They enhance the host's growth.

• They provide nutrients to the host.

• They cause damage and restrict growth.

• They protect the host from pests.

What is one potential benefit of parasitic plants in ecosystems?

• They prevent soil erosion.

• They increase soil fertility.

• They always harm the ecosystem.

• They provide food for pollinators and herbivores.

What is a negative impact of parasitic plants on agriculture?

• They enhance the nutritional value of crops.

• They cause widespread damage to crops.

• They protect crops from diseases.

• They improve crop yield.