Abstract
A defence mechanism against nematodes produced by Sphaerobolus stellatus Tode and Sphaerobolus iowensis L.B. Walker is described for the first time. Within 24 h of introduction, some individuals of a mycophagous nematode ( Aphelenchoides sp.) exhibited lethargic behaviour marked by the cessation of feeding and a reduction in movement. The anterior portion of the affected nematodes appeared swollen and was encapsulated with an amorphous material of unknown composition. The nematode stylet could not penetrate this encapsulating matrix, preventing further hyphal grazing and subsequently leading to death of the nematodes, possibly due to starvation. Immobilized nematodes were not consumed by the fungi. It is hypothesized that when the feeding nematodes pierce a specialized structure found in Sphaerobolus cultures, referred to as a gloeocystidium, the contents are released and solidify on the nematode heads. It is proposed that the gloeocystidia function to protect the hyphal system and act as a general antifeedant mechanism against mycophagous nematodes and possibly other fungus-feeding microfauna.
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