Correct option is A
Orobanche is a
flowering parasitic plant, which classifies it as a phanerogamic parasite. It lacks chlorophyll and depends entirely on host plants for water, minerals, and organic nutrients. The parasite attaches itself to the
roots of host plants through specialized absorbing organs called haustoria. Therefore, both statements describing
Orobanche are correct.
Information booster:
Orobanche is commonly known as
broomrape and causes severe damage to crops like mustard, tobacco, and sunflower. It is a
total parasite and cannot survive independently without a host plant. Damage occurs because nutrients are continuously withdrawn from the host root system. Management of
Orobanche is difficult due to its
underground parasitic growth habit.
Why other options are incorrect: (b) This option is incorrect because both statements are correct. (c) This option is incorrect because
Orobanche is indeed a root parasite. (d) This option is incorrect because Statement I is also correct.