A note on Aeginetia indica L.: a holoparasitic plant of India

Aeginetia indica L. is a holoparasitic flowering plant belonging to the family Orobanchaceae and is widely distributed across different regions of India. As a holoparasite, it lacks chlorophyll and depends entirely on host plants, primarily grasses and members of Poaceae, for its nutritional requirements. Present review compiled and synthesized available literature on the taxonomy, morphology, biology, host association, distribution and ecological significance of A. indica. The plant exhibits distinctive morphological adaptations such as reduced vegetative structures and specialized haustorial connections that facilitate parasitism. Although often overlooked due to its parasitic nature and seasonal appearance, A. indica plays a notable role in natural ecosystems by influencing host population dynamics and contributing to biodiversity. Ethnobotanical reports also indicated its traditional medicinal use in certain regions of India, highlighting its potential pharmacological importance. Despite its ecological and ethnobotanical relevance, comprehensive studies on its life cycle, reproductive biology and conservation status remain limited. The current study aims to provide an updated and consolidated account of A. indica, identify existing research gaps and encourage further studies on this unique holoparasitic plant of India.