Histochemical Localization of Acid Phosphatase in the Haustoria of Two Stem Parasites Cassytha Filiformis L. (Lauraceae) and Cuscuta Reflexa Roxb. (Cuscutaceae)

Abstract

Abstract Acid phosphatases consist of a group of non-specific enzymes that hydrolyse a variety of organic esters with the liberation of phosphate ions. Sodium α-naphthol phosphate substrate is used to localise acid phosphatase activity. The activity of this enzyme was greatest at the sites of haustorial entry and in the region of the hausorial contact with the host vasculature. The presence of this enzyme at the region of interface indicates that it may directly involve with energy transfer reaction.
Keywords: Acid phosphatase, Haustoria, Endophyte, Stem Parasite