Nematophagous fungi: three new species of Myzocytium

Abstract

Three species of Myzocytium parasitic on nematodes are described as new. In M. papillatum the zoospores encyst directly on the host cuticle before penetration. This species produces smooth, spherical oospores. In M. glutinosporum the biflagellate zoospores do not attack the host directly; after encystment they produce a spherical adhesive bud which allows the spores to adhere to the cuticle of passing nematodes. This species produces echinulate, spherical oospores. In M. anomalum the primary spores are aplanospores. After a dormant phase, and when suitably stimulated, these aplanospores change into biflagellate zoospores and the latter encyst on the host cuticle. No sexual state is known in this species. Persistence is by means of thick-walled, spherical chlamydospores.