answersLogoWhite

0

An epiphyte is a plant that lives on another plant. Whereas most plants anchor themselves in soil and derive nutrients from soil, an epiphyte attaches itself to the surface of a tree trunk, branch, leaf, or some other part of a plant. From there the epiphyte collects nutrients usually from water running off the substrate plant or from debris wafting in the air.

Ferns are a large, variable group of plants. Some, but not all, epiphytes are ferns. Some, but not all, ferns are epiphytes.

Some plant groups are more likely to have epiphytic species than others, and the ferns are one of those groups. For example, it's not surprising to learn about a fern, orchid, or bromiliad that is epiphytic. In fact, a very large portion of orchids and bromiliads are epiphytes. But it's very unlikely that you'll ever hear about an epiphytic pine tree. Pines simply can't have an epiphytic growth habit.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What is the difference between climbers and epiphytes?

what is the difference between epiphytes and climbers


What is the difference between ferns and trees?

the spelling


What is the difference between cycadopsida and ferns?

cycopsida is palm like structure


What is the difference between mosses and ferns and how does this difference effect their life cycle?

mosses are nonvascular but fern are vascular


What are the plants that grow on attached to tree?

Plants such as ferns, mosses, epiphytes (orchids, bromeliads etc.), vines and climbers as well as a range of parasitic plants


Please name two parasitic ferns?

Ferns are not parasitic, however some are "epithitic". Epiphytes are plants that grow upon another plant (such as a tree) non-parasitically. They derive moisture and nutrients from the air and rain, not from the host on which they are anchored.


What is the difference between a moss and fern?

mosses are non-vascular plants and ferns are vascular seedless plants


What is a difference between a fern and a moss?

mosses are non-vascular plants and ferns are vascular seedless plants


If there are 6 trees in a row and between each one there are ferns how many ferns are there?

How many ferns (that is a plural!) between the trees?If there are equal numbers of ferns in between each pair of trees: Five times as many ferns as between one pair.


What is the major difference between fern with the fern allies?

The major difference between ferns and fern allies is their reproductive structures. Ferns reproduce through spores produced in clusters called sori on the underside of their fronds, while fern allies reproduce through strobili or cones. Additionally, ferns have true roots, stems, and leaves, whereas fern allies lack true roots and leaves.


What are the 4 main types of plants in a rainforest?

The four main types of plants in a rainforest are emergent trees (tallest trees), canopy trees (form a dense leafy layer), understory trees and shrubs (smaller trees below the canopy), and ground layer plants (ferns, mosses, and fungi).


What are some examples for epiphyte?

Some examples of epiphytes include orchids, bromeliads, mosses, ferns, and certain species of cacti. These plants grow on other plants or structures, using them for support while obtaining nutrients and water from the air and surroundings. Epiphytes are commonly found in tropical rainforests and other humid environments.