Mode of nutrition in CUSCUTA is :

Options

A. Autotrophic
B. Heterotrophic
C. Photosynthetic
D. Parasitic

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Plant**: The question asks about the mode of nutrition in Cuscuta, commonly known as dodder.

2. **Characteristics of Cuscuta**: Cuscuta is a yellowish plant that lacks chlorophyll, which means it cannot perform photosynthesis. This absence of chlorophyll indicates that it does not have the ability to make its own food.

3. **Dependency on Host Plants**: Cuscuta grows on other green plants (host plants) and relies on them for nutrients. It attaches itself to the host plant and absorbs nutrients directly from it.

4. **Special Root Structure**: Cuscuta has specialized roots called haustorial roots, which penetrate the host plant's tissues to access its xylem and phloem. This allows Cuscuta to extract water and nutrients from the host plant.

5. **Mode of Nutrition**: Since Cuscuta depends on another plant for its nutrients and does not perform photosynthesis, its mode of nutrition is classified as parasitic. In parasitic nutrition, one organism benefits at the expense of another.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the mode of nutrition in Cuscuta is parasitic.

**Final Answer**: The mode of nutrition in Cuscuta is parasitic.

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