Question: Hypertrophy and hyperplasia are formed at the feeding site of Meloidogyne in:
Options:
Plant leaves
Plant stems
Plant roots
Plant flowers
• Meloidogyne, also known as the root-knot nematode, is a plant parasite that specifically targets plant roots. At the feeding site within the root, the nematode disrupts plant cell development, causing two key cellular changes:
Hypertrophy: This refers to the enlargement of existing cells. Meloidogyne secretions stimulate abnormal growth of root cells surrounding the feeding site, creating large, multinucleated giant cells.
Hyperplasia: This signifies an increase in the number of cells. Meloidogyne secretions also trigger rapid cell division near the feeding site, leading to the formation of more root cells.
These combined changes result in the formation of root galls, visible swellings on the roots that hinder nutrient and water uptake, ultimately affecting plant health and yield.