Cuscuta is an example of a

Options

A. heteroparasite
B. holoparasite
C. root parasite
D. semiparasite

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Cuscuta**: Cuscuta, commonly known as dodder, is a genus of parasitic plants that are known for their twining stems and lack of chlorophyll.

2. **Identifying the Type of Parasite**: Cuscuta is classified as a parasite because it derives its nutrients from a host plant. It does not perform photosynthesis due to the absence of chlorophyll.

3. **Defining Holoparasite**: A holoparasite is a type of parasite that cannot photosynthesize and is entirely dependent on its host for all of its nutritional requirements. It relies on the host plant for water, minerals, and organic compounds.

4. **Cuscuta's Dependency**: Cuscuta is an obligate parasite, meaning it cannot complete its life cycle without a host plant. It attaches itself to the host plant and absorbs nutrients directly from it.

5. **Conclusion**: Given that Cuscuta is entirely dependent on its host for nutrition and cannot survive independently, it is classified as a holoparasite.

6. **Final Answer**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option B: holoparasite.

---