ISSN:
1572-9710
Keywords:
ascomycetes
;
insects
;
mites
;
symbiosis
;
interactions
;
rDNA
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Many ascomycetes are associated with insects to form symbioses. The fungi are necrotrophic and biotrophic parasites, endosymbionts, insect-dispersed forms, and other obligate associates that provide nourishment for insects. Diversity among these fungi can be categorized in several different ways: taxonomic diversity, variety of interaction types occurring within a fungal lineage, and number of fungal species. Previously our inability to produce well supported phylogenetic hypotheses has obscured these views of diversity. Over the past 5 years our knowledge of insect-associated fungi has been improved by the use of DNA sequence analysis. Such studies have revealed that ascomycetes in almost all major clades are associated intimately with insects. Of particular interest has been the sorting out of relationships of taxa with convergent morphologies, unique characters, and lost characters, including those associated with sexual reproduction. Within some fungal groups the types of interactions with insects are diverse, and eventually phylogenetic analysis will help to trace the evolutionary development of symbioses. Molecular studies also contribute to our understanding of the number of species which may vary according to species concepts used in their study.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1018366203181
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