Ultrastructural studies on phytophthora palmivora infection on betelvine (Piper Betle L.)

Subcellular changes during Phytophthora infection on betelvine are studied. Haustorial penetration of the fungal mycelium is accompanied by degradation of host cell wall. Appearance of membrane bound lipoid bodies and amorphous structures leading to degeneration of host cytoplasm was observed. Considering the economic significance of the betelvine plants, information on the pathogen and host interaction in this species gains significance.