Question

In Cuscuta, the root rots away after stem makes contact with a host plant. What is the possible reason for this condition?

• A. Cuscuta doesn't need to absorb water and minerals from soil as it has aerial adventitious roots
• B. Cuscuta doesn't need to absorb water and minerals from soil as it has haustoria
• C. Cuscuta doesn't need to absorb water and minerals from soil as it has moist stem which absorbs moisture from environment
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Cuscuta doesn't need to absorb water and minerals from soil as it has haustoria

Dodder (Cuscuta), is a complete stem parasite. The dodder contains no chlorophyll and instead absorbs food through haustoria; these are rootlike organs that penetrate the tissue of a host plant.

So the correct option is "Cuscuta does not need to absorb water and minerals from the soil as it has haustoria".