Abstract
Parasitic plants proliferation globally is daunting and a threat to our ecosystems. In this study we explore holoparasites with limitation to dodders (Cuscuta spp. & Cassytha filiformis). An experiment was performed to ascertain anatomical and morphological characteristics of dodder capsule and its stem. We present dodder infestation stages, development phases and close observable internal and external microscopic features. A distinct haustorium trait of dodders is shown by micrographs. The study finds that dodder seeds possess high ecological dispersal character with vast adaptability through morphological analysis. This ramifies their ecological phenotypic plasticity. Externally, dodder stems attack the host phloem through haustoria that suck nutrients from the sap weakening it.
Highlights
Dodders (Cuscuta spp. & Cassytha filiformis) are among the flowering autotrophic plants that constitute in predominant field weeds that are either parasitic and semi-parasitic flowering plants
As the seed capsule dries, the size of cotyledons shrinks. Another noticeable feature at the cut dodder berry was its single seed trait per seed berry covered with mesocarp that dries as it matures and shrinks
More shoots are Dodders are opportunistic foraging plant parasite weeds that are obligate. Their specialized haustoria trait propel their development that is notable in different phases and stages
Summary
Dodders (Cuscuta spp. & Cassytha filiformis) are among the flowering autotrophic plants that constitute in predominant field weeds that are either parasitic and semi-parasitic flowering plants. A study by Nickrent [1] indicates that leading economic implication or damage is to the host plant accelerated by species from four genera, namely: Cassytha, Cuscuta, Striga, Orananche, and Arceuthobium. When Cuscuta seeds are fully mature, they fall off and hip on the ground in accumulation. At the ground, their germination will depend if there is a suitable host within the vicinity [6,7]. Dodder entirely attaches its stem to the host for nutrients access and water supply This assists the parasitic weed to mature. When it reaches the appropriate maturation phase, it forms inflorescences accompanied by abounding actinomorphic and hermaphrodite flowers. These flowers are tiny, hermaphroditic, reddish and whitish or yellow
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