The Alternaria brassicae – Nectria inventa host–parasite interface

Abstract

The Verticillium state of Nectria inventa is a destructive parasite of Alternaria brassicae. Tropic growth of parasite hyphae towards hyphae and conidia of A. brassicae occurs in the vicinity of the host. Upon contact, the parasite hyphae often form appressorium-like bodies on the host cells and produce fibrous adhesive material at the host–parasite interface. Conidia are penetrated more commonly than hyphae. Penetration of the septa in hyphae results in a separation of cells. Penetration of a mature conidium also occurs commonly at a septum. The presence of a large hole in the wall of the host cell and the meshwork of material at the penetration site suggest that enzymatic breakdown of host cell wall occurs. Juvenile conidia are penetrated usually at the basal pore.