Light and electron microscopy studies on the infection of tomato fruits by Botrytis cinerea

Abstract

A light microscopy study of the host–parasite relationship of Botrytis cinerea on immature tomato fruits was combined with an electron microscopy examination. Both techniques indicate that the cuticle is dissolved enzymatically rather than ruptured mechanically. Inter- and intracellular hyphae have no apparent effect on the cuticle, but do break down wall material. If the penetration tube development is arrested after emerging from the cuticle into the wall, wall discolouration and wall thickening become evident and a considerable increase in host cell organelles below the penetration site is observed. A papilla is also apposited. At successful penetration, when the hypha emerges from the cell wall into the host cell, little cell wall discolouration at the infection site is evident, but the cytoplasm becomes degenerate. Further hyphal extension then occurs in the epidermis, killing more epidermal cells, and leading to collapse, but not penetration, of underlying tissue.