The Genus Hirsutella: A Polyphyletic Group of Fungal Pathogens Infecting of Mites and Insects.

• Author(s): Boucias, Drion;
• Abstract: This review is intended to provide an overview of the biology of key species in the genus Hirsutella. Members in this genus infect a variety of invertebrate species including nematodes, mites and insects, many of which are economically-important pests. Recent molecular studies have indicated that the current taxonomy of this group likely is polyphyletic, and previous taxonomic placement based solely on morphological characteristics is outdated and requires revision. Various Hirsutella species cause epizootics that operate in a density-dependent fashion relative to fluctuating host populations. The use of Hirsutella species for pest control is limited because many of these pathogens are fastidious and require specific conditions to develop, however successful control of the citrus rust mite was achieved using a commercial formulation of H. thompsonii in Florida citrus. Currently, little is known about the pathology of many of the Hirsutella species, and further research is warranted to elucidate the infection process and associated chemistries that operate to debilitate and infect host systems.
• Publication Date: Jun 2007
• Journal: Book Chapter-