Orchid's nutrient theft from fungi shows photosynthesis-parasitism continuum

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: When the orchid Oreorchis patens happens to grow close to rotten wood, it shifts its fungal symbionts to those that decompose the wood and significantly increases the amount of nutrients it takes from them—without ceasing to employ photosynthesis. As a result, the plants are bigger and produce more flowers. Credit: Ansai Shun, adapted from The Plant Journal (2025). DOI: 10.1111/tpj.70045 Most orchids live in a symbiotic relationship with fungi in their roots: The plants provide sugar they produce through photosynthesis and in return receive water and minerals from the fungi. However, some orchids have stopped producing their own food and completely feed on fungi. Kobe University botanist Suetsugu Kenji says, "I've always been intrigued by how orchids turn parasitic. Why would a plant give up its reliance ... Read full article.