Heterotrophic Nutrition in Plants

Parasitic Plants

The Biological Thieves

Parasites derive nutrition directly from a host plant using modified roots called haustoria. They are categorized based on how much they rely on the host.
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Key Points

  1. Total Parasite: No chlorophyll; fully dependent (e.g., Cuscuta).
  2. Partial Parasite: Green leaves; only takes water (e.g., Mistletoe).
  3. Haustoria: Penetrate host tissue to reach the sap.
  4. The host plant is weakened over time.

Insectivorous Plants

The Nitrogen Hunters

These green plants live in nitrogen-poor soil. While they photosynthesize, they capture and digest insects to fulfill their nitrogen requirements.
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Key Points

  1. Pitcher Plant: Leaves modified into jugs with lids.
  2. Venus Flytrap: Leaves snap shut when trigger hairs are touched.
  3. Digestive Juices: Secreted inside the trap to break down prey.
  4. They are unique examples of partial heterotrophy.

Olympiad Fact

Insectivorous plants are also known as 'carnivorous plants'.

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