Phainopepla and Phoradendron

When we found acacias, we found phoradendron. The desert mistletoe is a parasite that steals nutrients from its host plant. During our stay in Granite Mountain, our host Tasha explained that phoradendron is typically found on acacias (although it can occasionally be found on other shrubby plants) and that research was being conducted on the grounds over a period of years to determine the relationship between phoradendron and the bird Phainopepla.

Phainopepla, a flycatcher species that migrates into the North American desert regions each spring, was a common sight for a significant stretch of our trip. In fact, we stopped on the side of the road on our way to Granite Mountain just so Bird Squad could stalk them for a hot minute. Tasha explained that phoradendron likely relies upon Phainopepla to spread its seeds via droppings just as Phainopepla relies upon phoradendron for a food source.

After a bit of online research, I found that the mistletoe seeds can stick to plants once spread by the flycatchers thanks to a sticky, mucous-like substance called viscin. Also, Phainopepla is technically a vector since it transfers a parasite from one organism to others.

You just have to love mutualism. Oh well, acacia.

Posted on March 25, 2018 09:33 PM by taylca