Host Selectivity and Distribution of Cassytha filiformis in the Coastal Bornean Heath Forests

We investigated the host range of L. in the heath forests using six 50-metre transects. Sixteen shrubs and tree species were infected by vines, including two exotic species. This paper also examined the density and vigour of when infecting the two most preferred and common hosts, the heath native (Griff. ex Hook. f. and Thomson) Martelli, and the invasive Willd. The results suggested that has higher vigour when infecting native hosts than in exotic albeit being not statistically significant. The long thread-like stems of parasite were present at relatively high density when infecting , regardless of the host conditions. We also assessed the functionality of the haustoria on both and using histological methods. It was found that can establish a true haustorial endophytic connection with studied hosts. Under controlled conditions, pose as a possible candidate for a biological control agent of to curtail the fast spreading of this introduced species in tropical Borneo.