Dodder Wrapped around Host (IMAGE) Penn State Caption Dodder, a parasitic plant that steals nutrients from its host plants, also sends genetic material into the host to shut down host genes. According to a new study, the parasite targets host genes that are evolutionarily conserved and sends over multiple versions of its genetic weaponry to ensure effectiveness across a variety of host species. Credit Nathan Johnson, Penn State Usage Restrictions Credit must be provided alongside image. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.