Enemies with benefits: positive effects of mistletoes

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About the research 

When you think of mistletoe, you probably think of the Christmas kissing tradition and ancient druids, while the word parasite may not come to mind. Yet mistletoe is a parasitic plant that grows on the branches of numerous tree species, from which it draws water and nutrients. This can lead to serious damage to this host tree. Still, we should not hastily remove mistletoe from these trees, says Luiza Teixeira-Costa (VUB). Watch her explain the positive side of this 'enemy with benefits'. 

Environment
Luiza Teixeira-Costa
VUB

Luiza Teixeira-Costa is fascinated by the diversity of plants and their ability to grow in unexpected places and forms. The biology of "strange-looking plants", such as mistletoes, has been her main area of interest for years. In her present project, Luiza combines field and laboratory work with science outreach to help unravel the positive side of parasitic plants and how they can improve biodiversity.

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