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Epiphytes

Epiphytes

Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants, typically trees, without parasitically drawing nutrients from them. Instead, they use their host for physical support to reach better light conditions and access to air and water. This unique ecological niche allows them to thrive in various environments, particularly in tropical rainforests where competition for light is intense.

Characteristics of Epiphytes

History and Evolution

The evolution of epiphytes has been closely tied to the development of forest canopies. Evidence suggests that epiphytes have been around since the Carboniferous period, with significant diversification occurring during the Cretaceous when flowering plants began to dominate the landscape, providing new habitats for epiphytes to colonize.

Types of Epiphytes

Examples and Distribution

Some well-known examples of epiphytes include:

Epiphytes are predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions, where the climate supports their growth, but they can also occur in temperate zones.

Conservation

Due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation, many epiphyte species are at risk. Conservation efforts often focus on protecting the forest canopies where these plants thrive, and studies on their seed dispersal mechanisms are crucial for their preservation.

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