Question

Differentiate between parasitic and saprophytic plants.

Answer 1

Parasitic Plants	Saprophytic Plants
A parasitic plant depends upon another plant (the host) partially or entirely for nutrition.	A saprophytic plant gets nutrients from dead and decaying organisms.
Parasitic plants have special roots that penetrate the host's stem or roots to directly absorb nutrients.	Saprophytic plants have fungi in their roots to help break down dead and decaying plant or animal matter.
Parasitic plants may have leaves and are usually green.	Saprophytic plants are generally white and do not have leaves.
Parasitic plants grow on other plants, which serve as the host.	Saprophytic plants generally grow in deep shade in tropical forests.
Examples: Mistletoe and Cuscuta.	Examples: Indian pipe and coral root are common saprophytic plants.