Definition

A special part of a parasitic plant that grows into another plant to take nutrients from it.

Example

The dodder plant uses its haustorium to extract water and nutrients from the host plant.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a haustorium?

Yeah, it's that part of a parasitic plant, right?

Exactly! It helps them absorb nutrients from their host plants.

That's so interesting; nature has such unique ways of surviving.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Haustorium is derived from the Latin root "haurire" (meaning to draw or to drink). The suffix "-ium" is often used in Latin to denote a place or a condition. Thus, haustorium refers to a structure or organ that draws nutrients or fluids, particularly in plants or parasitic organisms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'drawing' ('haurire') nutrients or fluids, which helps you remember that a haustorium is a structure that draws in resources.

Visually Confused Words