The involvement of cytokinins in a host–parasite relationship between the tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) and a nematode (Meloidogyne javanica)

Abstract

SummaryThe influence of Meloidogyne javanica on cytokinins in the host Lycopersicon esculentum has been studied at different stages of the nematode's life-cycle. Marked differences were detected in cytokinin content of root homogenates between infected and control plants, particularly at the 3rd (32 day), 4th (39 day) and 5th (55 day) harvests. Most of the cytokinin detected appeared to be associated with root homogenates in which the nematode was in the rapid post-moult growth stage. The influence of these nematodes on cytokinins in the host's xylem exudate was not nearly so pronounced. The freshly hatched 2nd-stage infective larvae of M. javanica were themselves capable of exuding cytokinin-like substances.