Studies on the Development and Establishment of Tapinanthus bangwensis

Tapinanthus bangwensis (Engler and K. Krause) Danser is nothost-specific in the absolute sense. The pattern of developmentup to the production of the first two plumular leaves is essentiallythe same on any host. The parasite, however, shows a preferencefor some hosts but such preference is independent of any characteristicsof the family or order to which the host belongs. Soon aftercontact with the host surface, the haustorium, the functionalroot of the parasite begins the penetration process The actualprocess of invasion is a rapid one and is hidden from view.The effects of crushing, disorganization, and disruption ofhost tissues that attend invasion point unequivocally to penetrationby mechanical action. Considerable though these effects mightbe cessation of growth of the parasite-bearing host branch isneither early nor common.