Glossary

epiphytes

Epiphytes (éh-puh-fyts) are plants that grow on the surface of other plants, typically on tree trunks or branches, without drawing nutrients from them.

They use their host plants for physical support but absorb water and nutrients from rain, fog, or debris that collects around them.

In coastal California forests, mosses, lichens, liverworts, and certain ferns are common epiphytes, often forming dense mats that provide shelter for insects and retain moisture for the surrounding habitat.

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