Dodder is an unusual and unwanted plant that attacks other plants. Except for its flowers, the plant looks like spaghetti, a kind of noodles in the shape of long thin pieces that look like string when they are cooked. Its almost leafless, thread-like stems（茎）hang down on top of other plants that dodder needs to stay alive. Dodder does not produce its own food. Instead, it steals food from other plants. It feeds by sucking juices from the plant which is wrapped around, often making its host very weak or even killing it.

Dodder can find other plants by their smell. When a young dodder plant starts growing, it follows the smell of plants it prefers, like tomato plants, potato plants, or other farm crops. Unlike most plants that usually grow in the direction of light or warmth, a dodder plant will grow in the direction of, for example, tomato smell-if a tomato happens to be growing nearby.

However, a young dodder plant must find a host plant quickly. It no longer needs its root once it is attached to the host and wrapped around it. If it cannot catch a smell of a potential host within a few days, it will dry up and disappear-even if there is plenty of water around. Once it finds a host, the young dodder plant will attach itself to it and start growing faster. At that point the dodder plant will drop its root.

Dodder is thus a difficult weed to manage and a real headache for farmers. When it does get out of hand, dodder can greatly reduce a farmer’s harvest or even destroy crops completely. Before sowing their produce, especially farmers in warm parts of the world often check to make sure no unwanted dodder seeds have mixed with their crop seeds. This is a good way to stop dodder plants from making their way to a crop field secretly.

Each dog breed has its own uniqueness. Some are playful, some are highly aggressive, and some cannot sit still without lending a helping paw. For our senior readers looking to adopt a puppy, there are 4 friendliest dog breeds you should have no problem training.

The Maltese

The Maltese may be small and not terrifying, but they’ve got a huge personality and are a total joy to be around. This breed isn’t high-maintenance, so you don’t have to physically keep up with the dog to keep him or her happy. Measuring up to 10 inches in length, it’s nearly impossible for a Maltese to knock a person down.

The Poodle

The playful, lovable Poodle is often found lightly running around the legs of older folks. They’re incredibly adorable and just as loyal. Their active behavior makes them a limitless source of entertainment for the old and young alike. Not only are they extremely funny, poodles actually make great guard dogs. Their intelligence allows pet owners to train them quickly and without much trouble.

The Beagle

Beagles are one of the simplest breeds to raise and train. They’re mainly known for their playful nature and easy-going behavior. In addition, they can stay relatively fit without much exercise, though they will jump up and down in joy when you mention the words “walk” or “park”. Beagles make for awesome companions for the young and elderly alike.

The Pomeranian

The thick-furred Pomeranian is an endless source of joy for dog owners regardless of age. Their curious facial expressions can keep us entertained for hours on end. However, don’t be fooled by its small stature; Pomeranians are highly protective of their masters. They’re also incredibly watchful and can sniff out danger from a mile away. They’re also relatively easy to train, so you and your Pomeranian can become good friends quickly.