Question

Dodder plant (Cuscuta) belongs to

• A. Malvaceae
• B. Rutaceae
• C. Rubiaceae
• D. Convolvulace

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To solve the problem, we need to determine the plant family to which the dodder plant (Cuscuta) belongs.

1. Understanding Cuscuta:
Cuscuta is a parasitic plant, commonly known as dodder. It is a leafless plant that derives nutrients from the host plant through structures called haustoria.

2. Taxonomic Classification:
- Genus: Cuscuta
- Family: Convolvulaceae
Cuscuta is classified under the family Convolvulaceae, which also includes other twining herbs and climbers.

3. Misleading Options:
- Malvaceae: Includes plants like cotton and hibiscus.
- Rutaceae: Includes citrus plants.
- Rubiaceae: Includes coffee and gardenia plants.
- Only Convolvulaceae is the correct family for Cuscuta.

Final Answer:
Dodder plant (Cuscuta) belongs to the \( {\text{Convolvulaceae}} \) family.