What is a haustorium?

A haustorium is a specialized structure found in certain parasitic fungi and some plants, which allows them to extract nutrients directly from their host. This structure penetrates the host tissues, facilitating the transfer of nutrients while often avoiding the host's defense mechanisms. The haustoria play a crucial role in the lifecycle of parasitic fungi, enabling them to survive and thrive by obtaining the necessary resources from their living hosts.

Understanding the role of a haustorium is vital in the context of plant pathology, as it sheds light on how pathogens interact with their hosts and potentially influence disease development. By effectively absorbing nutrients in this manner, these fungi can affect the growth, health, and agricultural yield of the host plants.