Parasitism is the ability of an organism to depend on other living organism for survival. The parasitic plant usually derive nutritional benefits from the host organisms without any benefit to the host organism. In most cases, the host organism is usually harmed in this type of relationship. The same is encountered in parasitism in tree plants.
In parasitic tree relationship, there exists some form of similarities between the host and parasite tree, and differences also exist. A careful comparison and contraction between these trees (where they match up), and differences is outlined below.
Where they match up:
Parasitic trees are living organisms too so they need some basic nutrients for their survivals same as the host tree need some nutrients too to survive.The parasitic tree and the host tree both have developed organs for the extraction of these nutrients. This organs includes the root in the host tree, and the modified root (haustoria) in the parasitic tree; which is tapped into the conductive system of the host tree.Both the host tree and the parasitic plants have evolved ways to propagate and disperse their seed to ensure the continuity of the species.In some cases, some parasitic plants have found economical uses like the consumption of their seeds and parts as food, extraction of useful oils from these tree plants, and some of these plants have found decorative uses and are sometimes employed in controlling some unwanted invasive tree plant species. Some host plants too have these economic importance too.
Differences:
While host trees draw their needed nutrients directly from the soil, parasitic trees draw their needed nutrients from the host trees.In most cases, the parasitic tree relies on the host tree for upright support, while host trees support themselves uprightly by anchoring their roots into the soil.Parasitic trees are dependent on the host tree for survival, while host trees are normally in most cases, independent of other plants for their survival.Most seeds and propagates of parasitic trees require the presence of the root, or other parts of the host plants. for them to germinate. Most host trees don't need the presence of other plants to germinate.The host tree posses normal root system that taps into the soil, the parasitic trees have modified roots, that penetrates and taps into the conductive systems (xylem and phloem) of the host tree.
