What are parasitic, photosynthetic plants called?

The correct answer is Hemiparasites.

Key Points

• Hemiparasites are parasitic plants that can perform photosynthesis but depend on their host plants for water and nutrients.
• They usually have green leaves that enable them to produce their own food through photosynthesis.
• Hemiparasites attach to the host plant using structures called haustoria to extract water and minerals.
• Examples of hemiparasitic plants include mistletoes and certain species within the Loranthaceae family.

Important Points

• Hemiparasites can survive without their host for short periods due to their ability to photosynthesize.
• They play a role in ecosystems by affecting host plant populations and contributing to nutrient cycling.

Additional Information

• Semiparasites: These are parasitic plants that partially depend on their host for survival but can also perform photosynthesis independently. They are similar to hemiparasites but may rely less on their host.
• Microparasites: Microparasites are microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that parasitize their host. They are not photosynthetic and are unrelated to parasitic plants.
• Holoparasites: Holoparasites are fully parasitic plants that lack chlorophyll and cannot perform photosynthesis. They depend entirely on their host for all nutrients and energy. Examples include Rafflesia and dodders.