Massospora

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Massospora

Massospora is a genus of fungi within the order Entomophthorales. These fungi are known for their unique life cycle and interactions with insects, particularly cicadas.

Description

Members of the genus Massospora are parasitic fungi that infect and manipulate the behavior of their insect hosts. They are characterized by their ability to produce spores that are dispersed to infect other individuals within the host population.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Massospora fungi begins with the infection of a host insect, such as a cicada. Once inside the host, the fungus grows and eventually manipulates the behavior of the insect, causing it to engage in abnormal activities that aid in the dispersal of fungal spores. These spores are then released into the environment, where they can infect other individuals.

Interactions with Cicadas

Massospora fungi are well-known for their interactions with cicadas. Infected cicadas may exhibit unusual behaviors, such as hyperactivity or wing-flicking, which are thought to aid in the spread of fungal spores. These interactions have been studied as a model system for understanding the coevolution of parasites and their hosts.

Research and Significance

Research on Massospora fungi has provided valuable insights into the dynamics of host-parasite interactions and the evolution of parasitic strategies. Understanding the mechanisms by which these fungi manipulate their hosts can shed light on broader questions in ecology and evolutionary biology.

See also

• Entomophthorales
• Parasitic fungi
• Cicada