Organisms deriving their nutrient from another organism (host) and causing disease to the host are called parasites.
a. Obligate or Total parasite – Completely depends on host for their survival and produces haustoria.
(I) Total stem parasite: The leafless stem twine around the host and produce haustoria.
Example: Cuscuta (Dodder), a rootless plant growing on Zizyphns, Citrus and so on.
(II) Total root parasite: They do not have stem axis and grow in the roots of host plants produce haustoria.
Example: Rajflesia, Orobanche and Balanophora.
b. Partial parasite – Plants of this group contain chlorophyll and synthesize carbohydrates. Water and mineral requirements are dependent on host plant.
(I) Partial Stem Parasite:
Example: Loranthus and Viscum (Mistletoe) Loranthus grows on fig and mango trees and absorb water and minerals from xylem.
(II) Partial root parasite:
Example: Santalum album (Sandal wood tree) in its juvenile stage produces haustoria which grows on roots of many plants.
