WAR of the MICROWORLDS
How do I kill Thee? Let me count the Ways! (# 10) click here for full list
' Stropharia rugosoannulata, Setae-like acanthocytes of Stropharia destroy nematodes.' BASIDIOMYCOTA.
"Efficient killing of nematodes by Stropharia rugosoannulata cultures was observed. This fungus showed the ability to immobilize the free-living nematode Panagrellus redivivus within minutes and to immobilize the pine wilt nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) Nickle within hours on agar plates. Moreover, P. redivivus worms were completely degraded by the fungus within 24 to 48 h. ". (Quotation from Luo et al. Appl Environ Microbiol 72: 2982). Note: although referred to here as worms or other times as eelworms, nematodes (Nematoda) are not segmented as in earthwoems (Annelida).
An acanthocyte appears as a cluster of stiff, spiny, setae-like growths arising from a tightly branched lateral from the vegetative hyphae in some species of Stropharia (Basidiomycota) and described in detail by Farr in Mycotaxon 11:241 (1980). The function is possibly to protect nutrient rich hyphae from marauding microfauna. There is a multitude of chemical and physical antifeedant methods found in fungi that need further study.
Footnote: although sometimes referred to as worms or eelworms, nematodes (nematoda) are not segmented as in earthworms (Annelida).
Image copyright George Barron from MycoAlbum CD
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