Cuscuta is an example of :

Options

A. Ectoparasitism
B. Brood parasitism
C. Predation
D. Endoparasitism

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Cuscuta**: Cuscuta, commonly known as dodder, is a genus of parasitic plants that do not have chlorophyll and cannot perform photosynthesis. This means they cannot produce their own food.

2. **Identifying the Type of Relationship**: Since Cuscuta relies on other plants for its nutrition and survival, it forms a parasitic relationship.

3. **Defining Ectoparasitism**: Ectoparasitism is a type of parasitism where the parasite lives on the surface of the host organism. In the case of Cuscuta, it wraps around the host plants and extracts nutrients from them.

4. **Evaluating Other Options**:
- **Brute Parasitism**: This term is not commonly used in biological contexts and does not apply to Cuscuta.
- **Predation**: This refers to a relationship where one organism (the predator) kills and eats another organism (the prey), which does not describe Cuscuta.
- **Endoparasitism**: This involves parasites that live inside the host's body. Since Cuscuta lives on the outside of the host plants, this option is incorrect.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the definitions and the nature of Cuscuta, the correct answer is A. Ectoparasitism.

**Final Answer**: Cuscuta is an example of A. Ectoparasitism.

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