ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Plutarchia (plant)

Plutarchia is a special kind of plant that grows in the rainforest. It has big, shiny leaves that are very pretty to look at. But what's really special about this plant is what it does to other plants around it. You see, Plutarchia is what we call an epiphyte, which means it grows on other plants instead of in the ground like most plants do.

When Plutarchia grows on another plant, it doesn't hurt it at all. In fact, it actually helps the other plant! Plutarchia gets its food and water from the air and rain, so it doesn't need to take any nutrients from the other plant. But what it does do is provide a home for other plants and animals. The big, shiny leaves of Plutarchia provide shade and shelter for small animals like insects and frogs. Plus, other plants can grow on or around Plutarchia, making the rainforest even more diverse and beautiful.

So, Plutarchia may be a small plant, but it plays a big role in the rainforest ecosystem by providing homes and support for other living things.