Effect of species environment on host preference of Cuscuta campestris

Abstract Cuscuta campestris is one of the most widespread and harmful parasitic plants in world. It regularly infests economically important crops substantially reducing their yield. Its host preference has been frequently investigated natural habitats, but studies have usually performed at only site. In this study, I tested hypothesis that host-preference a single site provide information about local individuals species not hosts general. The preferential status was different geographical regions, environments. Altogether 1847 relationships between parasite plant were examined categorized 171 places Hungary. used method took into account frequency intensity infestations on hosts, proportion resource use availability, distribution as well defence mechanisms hosts. greatly varied amongst 174 detected species. results confirmed parasitized C. are necessarily preferred. Most varying Poaceae found to differ from each other extent which they support parasite’s growth. study revealed also does always develop haustoria those species, unable contribute significantly its