Changes Observed in Cell Nuclei in Roots of Susceptible and Resistant Potato After Their Invasion By Potato Root Eelworm (Heterodera Rostochiensis Woll.) Larvae1)

Abstract

In the meristematic region of roots of susceptible potato plants, within 1-2 days after invasion by larvae of the potato root eelworm (Heterodera rostochiensis Woll.), an increased number of mitotic divisions, an enlargement of nuclei and sometimes many nucleoli in one nucleus were seen. Within 3-4 days after larval invasion many nuclei with cavities were observed. In cells of resistant plants (Solanum tuberosum X S. tuberosum subsp. andigenum) neither the increased number of mitotic divisions (on the contrary, sometimes fewer) nor other changes mentioned above have been observed. In roots of these plants nuclei which were stained very little, or even not at all, with Feulgen, were seen. They looked empty.