Development of Tapinanthus bangwensis (Engler and Krause) Danser and Contact with the Host

Tapinanthus bangwensis forms a single large union with the host.Initially, the haustorium penetrates the host-cortex by thepressure of growth and enzymic action. On contact with the wood,the haustorium induces meristematic activity in the xylem parenchymaand cambium which leads to the dissection of the host wood andpenetration of haustorial branches between the dissected portions.Vascular contact is made by the formation of adjacent conductingcells in the host and parasite tissues.