Nematophagous fungi use different mechanisms of capture, before killing and digesting nematodes: the endoparasites use their spores, the predatory fungi have developed special capture organs formed on hyphae, such as adhesive and constricting mycelial structures. Pleurotus infects nematodes by simple hyphae after having immobilized them with toxins. Verticillium infects eggs of cyst and root knot nematodes, also by simple hyphae. Penetration of the nematode cuticule, digestion of animals, formation of traps and sporulation are shown. Time-lapse, slow-motion. |