ANALYSIS OF FACTORS GOVERNING IN VITRO ACCUMULATION OF ZOOSPORES OF PYTHIUM APHANIDERMATUM ON ROOTS: I. BEHAVIOR OF ZOOSPORES

Abstract

Zoospores of Pythium aphanidermatum in distilled water suspension responded to intact pea roots by massing in large numbers at the sites of elongation behind the root tips. They showed preferential attraction to wounds made by puncturing the epidermis, and to the stele exposed at the cut ends of roots. Massing of zoospores was followed, almost immediately, by encystment and early germination, the germ tubes being directed towards the source of stimulation. The phenomenon was non-specific over a wide range of plants examined. Root exudate and extract, diffusing from the ends of capillary tubes containing these materials in agar, caused identical zoospore responses. Analysis of zoospore movement under stimulation revealed a sequence of responses—initial disruption of the typical course of movement, attraction, trapping, and early cessation of movement by encystment. Attraction was equated with chemotaxis, whilst trapping showed features of kineses.