Question

Which structure among the following is used by a parasite to draw food from their hosts?

• A. Haustoria
• B. Capsids
• C. Hyphae
• D. Rhizoids

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

The haustoria are root like structure developed by parasitic plants. These roots are able to penetrate into the stem of the host plants and absorb the nutrients and sap. Cuscuta (Dodder) plant is an obligate or total stem parasite. It lacks chlorophyll and has no connection with the soil after the seeding stage. Therefore it is totally dependent on the host for organic food materials and supply of water and minerals salts. The parasitic plant invades the stem with the help of haustoria, that establishes a connection with the vascular tissue of the host to absorbs nutrients.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.