Optimization of infection by Cistanche tubulosa on Tamarix chinensis assimilate distribution

The accumulation and distribution of photosynthate in Tamarix chinensis parasitized by C.tubulosa were studied using 13C stable isotope tracer technique.The results showed that:(1) After parasitism by C.tubulosa,the 13C-assimilation in T.chinensis leaves increased by 33.9%.(2) The 13C-assimilation distribution in T.chinensis was improved 113% in leaves,81% in stems and 72% in roots respectively,that promoted translocation and distribution into Cistanche tubulosa reached to 37.6% of 13C-assimilation accumulation during photosynthesis.(3) The chlorophyll content in T.chinensis leaves increased by 19.0%,the photosynthetic rate of the T.chinensis was risen by 20%.The dry weight per plant was 7.7 g less than 25.8% of the control.These results indicated that the assimilate distribution in the organs of T.chinensis was optimized by C.tubulosa.The reduction in weight was supposed to be concerned with the respiration process of the parasitic plant.