Colonization and control of Striga hermonthica by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. strigae, a mycoherbicide component: An anatomical study

► Foxy 2 destroys all tissue types (vessel, parenchyma) of Striga seedlings belowground. ► Hyphae follow Striga haustoria into sorghum central cylinder to ensure its destruction. ► In contrast to Striga seedlings, Striga shoots above ground react to Foxy 2 infection. ► Striga shoots produce an electron dense wall layer which prevents digestion of vessels. ► Clogging of vessels by Foxy 2 hyphae contributes to death of Striga shoots. ► Seed treatment is a suitable delivery method for Foxy 2.