Mycoheterotroph (adj.= mycoheterotrophic)

  • Title

    Mycoheterotroph (adj.= mycoheterotrophic)

  • Definition

    Unable to synthesize organic compounds from inorganic substrates, i.e., this kind of plant does not photosynethesize and is not green in color because it lacks chlorophyll. It is called a mycoheterotroph because it receives photosynthate from other plants through fungal ( = mycorrhizal) connections.

  • Notes

    Two myco heterotrophic plants based on unvouchered plants from the Adirondacks, New York. A = Monotropa uniflora (Indian pipe), B = Monotropa hypopithys (pinesap). Both are members of the Ericaceae (blueberry family). Formerly placed in the Monotropaceae.

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