Rafflesia is a

Options

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

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Rafflesia**: Rafflesia is a genus of flowering plants known for producing the largest individual flowers on Earth. It is a unique plant that is often referred to as a "corpse flower" due to its odor, which resembles that of decaying flesh.

2. **Identifying the Type of Parasite**: To classify Rafflesia, we need to determine how it interacts with its host plant. Rafflesia is known to be a total root parasite, meaning it completely relies on the roots of its host plant for nutrients and water.

3. **Explaining Total Root Parasite**: As a total root parasite, Rafflesia does not perform photosynthesis. Instead, it attaches itself to the roots of a host plant and extracts water and sugars directly from it. This is a key characteristic of total root parasites.

4. **Comparing with Other Types of Parasites**:
- **Partial Root Parasite**: An example is *Centella asiatica*, which can photosynthesize but also taps into the roots of other plants for additional nutrients.
- **Total Stem Parasite**: An example is *Cuscuta*, which depends entirely on the host for both water and sugars.
- **Partial Stem Parasite**: An example is *Laurenthus*, which relies on the host for water and minerals but can synthesize its own sugars.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the definitions and examples provided, Rafflesia is classified as a total root parasite. Therefore, the correct answer is option A: total root parasite.

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