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Epiphyte - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An epiphyte is a plant that grows on another plant for physical support but does not take nutrients from it. Examples include orchids and mosses, which often thrive in tropical forests.

epiphyte

/ˈɛpəˌfaɪt/ /ˈɛpɪfaɪt/

Definition:

A plant that grows on another plant but does not derive nutrients from it.

Synonyms:

air plant, periphyton, epibiont

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

parasite, saprophyte

Common Collocations:

tropical epiphytes, epiphyte species, epiphyte growth

Derivatives:

epiphytic, epiphytically

Usage Tips:

Use "epiphyte" to describe non-parasitic plants like orchids that grow on trees for support.

Common Phrases:

"epiphyte-rich forest, " "epiphyte-covered branches, " "epiphyte habitat"

Etymology:

From Greek "epi-" (upon) + "phyton" (plant), meaning a plant growing on another plant.

Examples:

  • 1. The orchid is an epiphyte that clings to tree bark.
  • 2. Epiphytes thrive in humid environments without harming their host plants.
  • 3. Spanish moss is a well-known epiphyte found in southern forests.
  • 4. Many ferns grow as epiphytes in tropical rainforests.

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