Structural Aspects of the Walls of Cateye Cotton

Abstract

Aspergillus flavus boll infection is revealed in a bright, greenish-yellow fluorescence of cotton seeds. The lint on these seeds has been studied microscopically to determine the characteristic properties of the infected fibers. Photomicrographs andelectron micrographs show the extent of wall damage caused by the A. flavus fungus. Cross sections examined in the light microscope revealed a “doughnut” fiber shape, unlike the usual kidney-bean shape of normal cotton. A possible mechanism for this phenomenon is suggested.