Question

Orchids, which grow on trees, are the examples of
A) Parasites
B) Epiphytes
C) Saprophytes
D) Mutualism

Answer 1

Hint:Orchids are non-woody perennial plants which are generally terrestrial or epiphytic herbs (that means they grow on other plants rather than by themselves rooted in soil).

Complete Answer:
A. Parasites - relationship between two species of plants or animals in which one. e.g. benefits at the expense of the other, sometimes without killing the host organism eg: Cuscuta.
B. Epiphytes – They are the plants, grow on the branches of big trees for light and shelter. e.g.: Orchids
C. Saprophytes – They are the organisms which grow on the dead bodies for food e.g.: Rhizopus
D. Mutualism -Alternatively known as symbiosis which is beneficial to both organisms involved. e.g.: Birds and Hippos.

Additional information:Orchids are epiphytes (plants that grow on other plants).
Orchids grow high within the canopy of rainforests on the branches of trees.They get more sunlight and are more easily visited by the moths which pollinate them. Also, because the orchids are up high, the wind can easily catch and spread their tiny seeds. Orchids do not harm the trees they grow in. Their roots stay on the bark of the tree where the roots do not take water or any nutrients from the tree.
Epiphytes or air plants grow everywhere but can be only found mainly on the branches, trunks, and even the leaves of trees. Epiphytes grow on sides of tall trees in order to be closer to the sunlight. They have no roots but they collect water and nutrients from the air. They begin their life in the canopy from seeds or spores transported there by birds or winds.

Hence, the correct answer is option B 'epiphytes'.

Note: Orchids growing on the branches of trees is an example of Commensalism because here Orchid is getting benefited.The name 'epiphyte' comes from the Greek word 'epi' meaning 'upon' and 'phyto' meaning 'plant'.