Studies in Septoria lycopersici Speg.

Abstract

Investigations into the biology of Septoria lycopersici Speg., a leaf-spotting fungus parasite of the tomato, reveal that this fungus species is composed of at least two physiologic races which show both qualitative and quantitative differences in their pathogenicity. Other factors, such as humidity, temperature, light, and host nutrition, which influence host–parasite interaction, have been shown to cause further variability in the symptomatological picture. Studies of spore germination and the prepenetration phase of host–parasite relationships suggest an interaction before actual penetration which, in some cases, is sufficient to condition the germination of the spores themselves. A minimum period of 48 hr. at saturation is required to promote germination and stomatal penetration, but this experience at high humidity need not be continuous. The fungus inhabits an intercellular locus, but is very intimately associated with the cells of the tissues parasitized. There is no evidence of action in advance; ...