Once the fungus penetrates a certain point

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" Fungi play a crucial role in the biology of many plants because they

convert oxygen to compounds that plants can use to grow, but orchids

depend on fungi well into maturity. " Beneath their good looks,

orchids are parasites, says Jutta. " This conclusion was established

only at the beginning of the last century, and after much debate, it

has finally been accepted and scientifically proven.

" Orchids use fungi as a means of nutrient transport. The plant even

produces sugary matter for the fungi, which feed on carbohydrates, to

attract them. "

Once the fungus penetrates a certain point within the plant's cells,

says Jutta, the cells will secrete an enzyme that breaks down the

fungal tissues, keeping the fungus in check and preventing it from

invading the plant further.

The dissolved fungal tissue is then broken down into vitamins, fatty

acids and carbohydrates which the plant uses for its own growth.

" This cycle is repeated over and over, and each cell is re-colonised

several times. " This process, she adds, begins as soon as an orchid

seed germinates.

" When a seed's outer shell is broken, it is `invaded' by a fungus,

but the seed contains the enzyme that keeps it in check, not allowing

the fungus to destroy it. "

Once this happens, the fungus is not killedbut it simply becomes a

vessel through which the orchid derives nutrients for its own

development, says Jutta.

But while orchids are not prized for their parasitic characteristics,

they are certainly appreciated for their incredible beauty.