Scanning electron microscopy of the colonization of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) by host and nonhost Fusarium oxysporum

Authors

  • lbraheem S. Gbaja Department of Biological Sciences, Chelsea College, University of London. Hortensia Road, London SW10 OQR, UK
  • Stuart R. Chant Department of Biological Sciences, Chelsea College, University of London. Hortensia Road, London SW10 OQR, UK

Keywords:

Fusarium oxysporum, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp., Scanning electron microscopy, Viruses, Co-infection

Abstract

The extent of colonization of the vascular tissue of hypocotyls of two cultivars of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. tracheiphilum (Fot) and Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. phaseoli (Fop) is described. Co-infection with Sunn-hemp mosaic virus (SHMV) appeared to enhance the spread of the fungus in the vascular tissues. Deficiency of nitrogen appeared to diminish the spread of the fungus in the vessels of cowpeas infected with Fot or Fop alone but not in combination with SHMV.

Issue

Section

Research Papers