The orchid Oreorchis patens has a unique ability to shift its fungal symbionts to those decomposing wood, resulting in increased nutrient uptake without stopping photosynthesis, leading to bigger plants and more flowers. This behavior challenges the traditional understanding of orchid-fungi relationships, with less than 10% of orchids exhibiting parasitic behavior. The discovery by Kobe University botanist Suetsugu Kenji sheds light on the intricate balance between photosynthesis and parasitism in orchids, offering a concrete ecological explanation for their choices. Many questions remain, but this research provides valuable insights into the diverse strategies orchids use in various environments.
https://phys.org/news/2025-02-orchid-nutrient-theft-fungi-photosynthesis.html