Abstract

The ultrastructural aspects of Rhizopus stolonifer (Fr.) Lind. Infection in Ipomoea batatus Lam. Roots and the histochemistry of cell walls affected by enzymes secreted by the fungus were investigated. Specimens were prepared for viewing in the electron microscope by thin-sectioning techniques. Degradation of cellular membreanes and host tissues in advance of the fungus was evident. Breakdown of the middle lamella was detected by special histochemical stains for pectin. Breakdown occurred in the following was: (1) maceration of the middle lamella before maceration of the cell wall, (2) simultaneous degradation of both the middle lamella and the cell wall, (3) maceration of the cell wall before maceration of the middle lamella. A difference in electron-opacity in health, non-infected host walls and infected host walls was observed. Irregularity in the infection front and the host tissues by various enzymes was observed.

Degree

MS

College and Department

Life Sciences; Plant and Wildlife Sciences

Rights

http://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

1971-08-01

Document Type

Thesis

Handle

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/Letd470

Keywords

Sweet potatoes, Diseases and pests; Rhizopus stolonifer

Language

English

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