Aphid-pathogenic Entomophthorales (their taxonomy, biology and ecology)

Abstract

Fungi of the order Entomophthorales (Zygomycota, Zygomycetes) constitute a group of mostly insect pathogenic species, which attracts attention of insect pathologists because of their high capacity for use in biological control of pest insects. This work primarily focuses on entomophthoralean species attacking aphids. The Entomophthorales are considered major pathogens of aphids in nature. In fact, the fungi are the only pathogens that regularly and effectively can affect aphid populations in natural ecosystems as well as in agroecosystems. Up to now, 33 entomophthoralean species organized into 9 genera have been recorded in aphid hosts. All fungal species are listed and organised by genus in the work. Descriptions are presented for all the fungal genera and species, including a nomenclature genesis, a geographical distribution, a host specificity/host range, a capability of cultivation in vitro, and possible prospects for their use in biological control strategies. A key to identification of the pathogens is provided as well. A general life cycle outline of the pathogens is followed by fundamental facts on biology and ecology of the fungi and analysis of primary factors that are involved in the study of epizootiology of infectious diseases in insect populations. The abiotic and biotic elements of the environment, which interfere in the pathogen-host interactions, are also underlined. In the last chapter, several examples are reviewed when the Entomophthorales were used against aphids within the four strategies of biological control, namely classical biological control, inoculation biological control, inundation biological control, and conservation biological control. The aim of this review is to cover the present status of knowledge about the natural enemies of aphids and to stimulate an interest of insect pathologists in this group of entomopathogenic fungi.