Some aspects of host-parasite interaction in the system sunflower (Helianthus Annuus L.) – Broomrape (Orobanche Cumana Wallr)

Abstract

Sunflower broomrape (Orobanche cumana Wallr.) is an obligate, holoparasitic angiosperm that connects to the vascular system of their host plant through a specialized structure known as haustorium and lives attached to the roots of sunfower, depleting the plant of nutrients and water. This parasitic plant is regarded as one of the most important constraints on sunflower production in areas of eastern and southern Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Ukraine and China [20], including Republic of Moldova. A high infestation level can cause total yield loss.