Santalum album is a
(a) Total stem parasite
(b) Total root parasite
(c) Partial stem parasite
(d) Partial root parasite

Options

A. Total stem parasite
B. Total root parasite
C. Partial stem parasite
D. Partial root parasite

Answer

To determine the correct classification of Santalum album, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Plant**: Santalum album is commonly known as Indian sandalwood. It is important to recognize its common name and scientific classification.

2. **Understand its Parasitic Nature**: Santalum album is known to be a parasitic plant. It derives nutrients from other plants, which is a key characteristic of parasitic plants.

3. **Determine the Type of Parasitism**:
- **Total vs. Partial**: Total parasites cannot photosynthesize and rely entirely on their host for nutrients. Partial parasites can photosynthesize and derive some nutrients from their own photosynthesis.
- Since Santalum album can photosynthesize, it is classified as a partial parasite.

4. **Identify the Host Interaction**:
- **Stem vs. Root**: Total stem parasites attach to the stem of the host plant, while total root parasites attach to the roots. Partial parasites can attach to either.
- Santalum album specifically traps the roots of other plants to derive nutrients, indicating that it interacts primarily with the roots.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the above points, Santalum album is classified as a partial root parasite because it can photosynthesize (making it a partial parasite) and it derives nutrients from the roots of other plants.

### Final Answer:
**(d) Partial root parasite**

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