ScienceSeptember 2, 2026

mycoheterotrophic

MY-koh-het-uh-roh-TROH-fik

Definition

Describing a plant that obtains nutrients from underground fungi rather than through photosynthesis.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'mykes' (fungus), 'heteros' (other), and 'trophe' (nourishment), referring to a plant's ability to feed by tapping into the resources of another organism.

In the news

The article uses the term to explain how 'fairy lantern' flowers survive in the dark, as they lack chlorophyll and depend entirely on fungi for their food source.

A Newly Discovered ‘Devil Flower’ Hides Beneath the Forest Floor Before Emerging With Black Petals and Demon-Like Eyes

Read the full article ↗

Discover Magazine

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