Plant species can be categorized into saprophytes and symbionts based on their nutritional habits. Saprophytes thrive on decaying organic matter, while symbionts rely on other living organisms for their sustenance.
Difference Between Saprophytic and Symbiotic Plants - Testbook
Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
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Understanding Saprophytes
Saprophytes are unique plants that derive their nutrients from decomposed organic material. They lack chlorophyll, which is why they are referred to as non-green plants. These plants typically flourish on dead wood, decomposing waste, and fallen leaves. They possess enzymes that help them break down organic substances into simpler forms.
Defining Symbionts
Symbionts, on the other hand, establish close associations with other plants from which they obtain their nutrition. Their relationships can be categorized into three types –
- Mutualism: Both organisms benefit from this relationship.
- Commensalism: One organism benefits while the other remains unaffected.
- Parasitism: One organism benefits at the expense of the other.
Now, let's delve into their differences.
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Saprophytic plants, or saprophytes, utilize dead and decomposing organic matter for their nourishment. |
Symbiotic plants, or symbionts, establish close relationships with other organisms for their nutrition. |
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No specific types. |
Three types: Mutualism, Commensalism, and Parasitism . |
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Pseudohydnum gelatinosum (Toothed Jelly fungus), Armillaria mellea (Honey fungus) |
Lichen sp., Mycorrhizal fungi which form symbiotic relationships with the roots of trees. |
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Extracellular digestion |
Intracellular digestion |
Discover more about biology by visiting this link .
You might also find these topics interesting:
- The Contrast between Parasitism and Symbiosis
- An Overview of Parasitic Fungi
- Nutrition in Living Organisms and Modes of Nutrition
- Heterotrophic Nutrition
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between saprophytes and saprotrophs?
Saprophytes are plants that follow saprophytic mode of nutrition, whereas saprotrophs are fungi that follow the saprophytic mode of nutrition.
Are saprophytes green?
No, saprophytes lack chlorophyll and are called non-green plants.
Is amoeba saprophytic?
No, amoeba is not saprophytic. Instead, it follows a holozoic mode of nutrition.
Is cuscuta a saprophyte?
No, cuscuta is a parasite which grows on other plants, takes nutrients from them and weakens them.
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