Observations on predatory fungi

Abstract

In Arthrobotrys flagrans the chlamydospores are formed, following rupture of the primary hyphal wall, by expansion of the inner wall which then produces warty encrustations over its surface. Evidence is presented to show that in Arthrobotrys anchonia none of the water necessary for expansion of the constricting ring cells comes through the stalk cells. Expansion of constricting rings in Dactylaria brochopaga often appears biphasic with little or no constriction of the host cuticle taking place during the first phase of expansion. Microconidia have been found in three species of predatory fungi with constricting rings. In the presence of nematodes, microconidia germinate directly to produce small, functional, constricting rings.