Question

Which among the following statements is/are correct?

1. Epiphytes are common in the Mediterranean forests.

2. Epiphytes include ferns, orchids, mosses and lichens

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : 2 only

The correct answer is 2 only.

• Epiphytes 
  • It is also called an air plant.
  • It grows upon another plant or object merely for physical support.
  • They derive nutrients from rainwater, air and from other sources.
  • They are found on branches, leaves, trunk and other surfaces of plants.
  • Epiphytes anchor themselves to a tree. However, do not obtain water or other nutrients directly from it.
  • They are commonly found in rainforests, tropical and temperate regions. (statement 1 is not correct).
• They do not harm the host plant.
• Epiphytes can be categorised into:
  • Holo-epiphyte: These plants complete its lifecycle on the host plant without coming on the ground, e.g. Orchids
  • Hemi-epiphyte: These plants later in its life, reaches the ground. Its root develops and makes contact with the ground, e.g. Strangler fig
  • Proto-epiphytes: They are dependent on the host to derive nourishment. They lack adaptive features except for aerial roots, e.g. Peperomia
• Examples- ferns, orchids, mosses and lichens (statement 2 is correct).
• Orchids are present as an epiphyte on a mango branch.