Structure and Development of the Primary Haustorium in Alectra vogelii Benth. (Scrophulariaceae)

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Abstract
Anatomical observations were made on the structure and development of the primary haustorium of Alectra vogelii. Its development involves a mutual aggressive growth of both the host and parasite tissues resulting in the formation of a very large and complex tuberous organ. One of the host tissues whose growth is stimulated by parasite infection is the pericycle whose cells divide repeatedly and grow around and within the parasite haustorial cortex. From various points of the proliferating host pericycle, roots become initiated and eventually the entire surface of the haustorium becomes covered with these roots. We have referred to them as ‘haustorial roots’, a term which we have re-examined and redefined. True xylary connections are established not only between the parasite and the host root but also between the parasite and these ‘haustorial roots’. The unique development of primary haustorium and ‘haustorial roots’ in A. vogelii is discussed in relation to the development of primary haustoria in other root parasites.

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