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Metarhizium species (Metschnikoff) Sorokin, also known as green muscardine fungi, have long been recognized for their biological control potential against arthropods. The species level name of one of the more widely researched Metarhizium species (M. anisopliae) was derived from this beetle. Morphological features for identifying Metarhizium species can be imprecise as there can often be overlap of characters among species. Molecular techniques have shown that what used to be called M. anisopliae represents a complex of nine species.
Appearance
Infections of arthropods by Metarhizium species are easily recognized a few days after death, when the fungus grows out of the arthropod integument and forms reproductive structures. Initially, one only sees fungal hyphae that appear white, but, as conidia form and mature they often take on a characteristic olive green color. However, depending on the species and strain of Metarhizium, spores can range in color from white to yellow to brown and green.
Habitat (Crops)
Metarhizium species are commonly thought of as soil saprophytes and are most frequently found in disturbed habitats like agricultural fields as compared to forest ecosystems. Additionally, recent findings suggest that these fungi form associations with plant roots in the rhizosphere and survive better in that environment than in surrounding potting soil over extended periods of time.
Pests Attacked
Metarhizium species are known to attack a wide range of arthropods: greater than 200 species in over 50 families. These include many species of agricultural, medical and veterinary importance. include “various ticks and beetles; root weevils, flies, gnats, thrips,” and locusts and grasshoppers . Additionally, Metarhizium species have been developed in other countries for use against cockchafers, spittlebugs, grubs, borers, and for control of mosquitoes that vector malaria.
For All crops
