**Host and Parasite Plants: Explained**

**Introduction**
Host and parasite plants are two different types of plants that have a symbiotic relationship, where one plant benefits at the expense of the other. While both plants are connected, they have distinct characteristics and roles within this relationship. Let's explore the differences between host and parasite plants in detail.

**Host Plants**
Host plants are the plants that provide resources and support to another plant, known as the parasite. They serve as the base for the parasitic plant to establish itself and obtain vital nutrients. Here are some key characteristics of host plants:

1. **Resource Providers**: Host plants supply nutrients, water, and other essential resources to the parasite plant.
2. **Larger and Established**: Host plants are usually larger and more established than the parasite plants. They have well-developed root systems and are capable of absorbing and transporting nutrients efficiently.
3. **Photosynthetic Activity**: Host plants possess chlorophyll and are capable of photosynthesis to produce food for themselves and the parasite plant.
4. **No Direct Benefit**: Host plants do not receive any direct benefits from the parasite plant. In fact, the presence of a parasite may harm the host's growth and reproduction.
5. **Examples**: Common examples of host plants include trees, shrubs, and other larger plants that provide support and resources to parasitic plants like mistletoe and dodder.

**Parasite Plants**
Parasite plants are the plants that rely on host plants for their survival and nutrient acquisition. They tap into the resources of the host plant to meet their needs. Here are some key characteristics of parasite plants:

1. **Resource Exploiters**: Parasite plants extract water, nutrients, and even carbohydrates from the host plant. They establish connections with the host's vascular system to acquire these resources.
2. **Reduced Chlorophyll**: Parasite plants often have reduced chlorophyll or lack it altogether. They rely on the host plant for photosynthesis and energy production.
3. **Specialized Structures**: Parasite plants have specialized structures, such as haustoria, which penetrate the host's tissues to establish connections and extract nutrients.
4. **Partial or Complete Dependence**: Parasitic plants may rely partially or completely on the host plant for their survival. Some parasitic plants can photosynthesize to a limited extent, while others are entirely dependent on the host.
5. **Examples**: Common examples of parasite plants include mistletoe, dodder, and Indian pipe. These plants lack extensive root systems and obtain nutrients directly from the host plant.

**Conclusion**
In summary, host and parasite plants play distinct roles in a symbiotic relationship. Host plants provide resources and support to parasite plants, while parasitic plants exploit the resources of the host. Understanding the characteristics and differences between these two types of plants helps us comprehend the intricate dynamics of their relationship in nature.

Host are autotrophs while parasatic plants are Heterotroohs.
the plants which give nutrition is called host