[Campbell Biology P.868] A plant species is observed growing on the branches of a large tree... | Practice Question
A plant species is observed growing on the branches of a large tree. It obtains water and minerals directly from rain and debris accumulated on the tree, primarily through its leaves, but does not extract any nutrients from the tree itself. This plant most likely belongs to which category?
Explanation
An epiphyte is defined as a plant that grows on another plant, producing and gathering its own nutrients without tapping into the host for sustenance, and absorbing water and minerals from rain, mostly through leaves. The description perfectly matches the definition of an epiphyte.