The infection process of Stemphylium solani on resistant (Motelle) and susceptible (Moneymaker) tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) leaflets was studied using histochemical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques. No quantitative differences were found in the pre-penetration conidial events on resistant and susceptible tomatoes, indicating that resistance results from post-penetration responses. The histological studies showed that the initial infection events were similar in resistant and susceptible plants. The pathogen invaded the tomato leaf primarily through stomates and a vesicle developed inside the substomatal cavity. Secondary hyphae originated from the vesicle and within 24 and 36 h after inoculation had branched inter and intracellularly in both cultivars. Cell wall appositions in the mesophyll of resistant tomato prevented intracellular colonization.
resistance; infection process; Lycopersicon esculentum; electron microscopy
