Epiphytes dependence — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2001
Epiphytes are plants which depend on other plants for:
- food
- mechanical support
- shade
- water
Explanation
Option (b) is correct
- Epiphyte are plants that grow on other plants mainly for mechanical support. They are not parasitic and do not obtain food from the host plant. Instead, they absorb moisture and nutrients from the surrounding air, rain, and debris. Orchids and many mosses are common examples of epiphytes.
Answer: (b) mechanical support
