New species and new records of fungi that attack microscopic animals

Abstract

Three species of fungi that attack microscopic animals are described as new. Verticillium coronatum (Hyphomycetes) produces conidia that have a cluster of small, apical appendages. The appendages function in attaching the conidia to the cuticle of the host nematode in the initial stages of infection. Diheterospora humicola (Hyphomycetes) was found to attack bdelloid rotifers in soil. Infection of the host is initiated by ingestion of conidia. Lagenidium oviparasiticum (Oomycetes) is an aggressive parasite of the eggs of Adineta rotifers. Zoospores of the fungus encyst on the egg shell, penetrate, and transfer their contents into the egg to initiate infection.