How does Striga hermonthica Bewitch its hosts?

Abstract

The common name witchweed synonymous with the Latin name Striga befits the bewitching effects, viz wilting and chlorosis, the parasite inflicts on its hosts long before it emerges and becomes visible above the ground. However, interactions in the rhizosphere between host roots and Striga seedlings are concealed and inscrutable. In vitro experiments revealed that abscisic acid was produced by S. hermonthica seedlings and a considerable portion of the phytohormone was exuded. The phytohormone in the rhizosphere could, at least in part, contribute to the bewitching effects, disrupt host immunity and promote commencement of parasitism.

Keywords: Striga; abscisic acid; witchweed.