Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 13, 2026

Leveraging Micro-CT Scanning to Analyze Parasitic Plant-Host Interactions
Published on: January 12, 2022
Genetic evidence for host specificity in the hemi-parasitic Viscum album L. (Viscaceae)
Abstract:
Nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) ITS sequences and partial sequences of three non-coding chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) introns and spacers were used to assess genetic variation within and among three presumed host races of the hemi-parasite Viscum album L. Currently, identification of host races occurs via the host trees, and morphological differences are minute at best. cpDNA and nrDNA ITS sequences revealed little sequence variation, but the variation found consistently supported the distinction of three host races. cpDNA and ITS sequences were not incongruent, as assessed by the incongruence length difference test. A combined analysis supported the sister group relationship between mistletoes from deciduous trees and fir.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Genetics of Speciation
Frequency-dependent Selection
Epiphytes, Parasites, and Carnivores
Gene Flow
Microbial Interactions: Parasitism
Human Virome

