Parasitic plant among the following is

Options

A. a) Nepenthes
B. b) Rhizobium
C. c) Cuscuta
D. d) Lichens

Answer

To determine which of the given options is a parasitic plant, we will analyze each option step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Options**: The options provided are:
- A) Nepenthes
- B) Rhizobium
- C) Cascuta
- D) Lichens

2. **Analyze Each Option**:
- **Option A: Nepenthes**
- Nepenthes is a genus of pitcher plants that are known for their carnivorous nature. They trap and digest insects for nutrients but do not derive nutrients from other plants. Therefore, they are not parasitic.
- **Conclusion**: Not a parasitic plant.

- **Option B: Rhizobium**
- Rhizobium is a type of bacteria that forms a symbiotic relationship with leguminous plants. It lives in root nodules and helps in nitrogen fixation. However, it is not a plant and does not exhibit parasitism.
- **Conclusion**: Not a parasitic plant.

- **Option C: Cascuta**
- Cascuta, commonly known as dodder, is an obligate stem parasite. It lacks chlorophyll and cannot perform photosynthesis, relying entirely on its host plant for nutrients by sucking sap. This makes it a true parasitic plant.
- **Conclusion**: This is a parasitic plant.

- **Option D: Lichens**
- Lichens are a symbiotic association between fungi and algae (or cyanobacteria). They do not exhibit parasitism; instead, they have a mutualistic relationship where both organisms benefit.
- **Conclusion**: Not a parasitic plant.

3. **Final Answer**: Based on the analysis, the parasitic plant among the options is **Cascuta**.