#Orchid's #nutrient theft from f#ungi sheds light on #photosynthesis-#parasitism continuum.
#kleptophagy #kleptoparasitism #mycoheterotrophy #mycorrhizae
https://phys.org/news/2025-02-orchid-nutrient-theft-fungi-photosynthesis.html
Orchid's nutrient theft from fungi sheds light on photosynthesis-parasitism continuum
Most orchids live in a symbiotic relationship with fungi in their roots: The plants provide sugar they produce through photosynthesis and in return receive water and minerals from the fungi. However, some orchids have stopped producing their own food and completely feed on fungi.