NEMATODE ROOT GALLS IN EMBRYO CULTURES OF CALAMUS ROTANG

Abstract

Root galls induced by nematodes were observed in seedlings raised from excised embryos of Calamus rotang. Nematode cysts were seen in the cortical cells and in the xylem elements. There was extensive proliferation of outer cortex in the galled part of the root. The aerenchyma between the outer and inner cortex was much reduced. The inner cortex close to the stele had more number of cell layers. The stele showed enlargement. Some cells of the inner cortex developed curious ingrowths, another effect of nematode infection.