Cuscuta Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Cuscuta
[ˈkʌskjʊtə ]
Definition
botanical term
Cuscuta, commonly known as dodder, refers to a genus of twining, leafless parasitic plants belonging to the morning glory family. These plants are characterized by their thin, stem-like structures and their ability to attach themselves to host plants through specialized structures called haustoria. Cuscuta species typically derive nourishment from their host plants, often leading to the decline or death of the host.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Cuscuta vines can damage crops.
- Agronomists study Cuscuta for pest control.
- The Cuscuta plant lacks chlorophyll.
- Cuscuta is known for its parasitic nature.
Translations
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Origin of 'Cuscuta'
The name 'Cuscuta' is derived from the Latin term 'cuscuta,' which was used by ancient herbalists to describe various parasitic plants. The roots of the term can be traced back to the Greek word 'kuskutos,' referring to a kind of plant that clings to others. Over centuries, Cuscuta has gained recognition in botany and agriculture due to its unique biological characteristics and its impact on the ecosystems it inhabits. The classification of Cuscuta has undergone various revisions as botanists compare morphological and genetic data, contributing to our current understanding of this diverse genus, which includes over 170 species worldwide.