ARS | Publication request: Identification of entomopathogenic fungi

Submitted to: Manual of Techniques in Invertebrate Pathology
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: January 19, 2012
Publication Date: April 1, 2012
Citation: Humber, R.A. 2012. Identification of entomopathogenic fungi. In: Lacey, L.A., editor. Manual of Techniques in Invertebrate Pathology. London,UK: Academic Press. p 151-187.

Technical Abstract: This chapter provides essential assistance for the identification of the most important genera (and main species) of fungal pathogens affecting insects, mites, and spiders. The key allows identifications regardless of which major spore types might be present with the specimen. The phylogenetic affinities, descriptions of principal taxonomic characters, brief characterizations of the most important species, main taxonomic literature for the identification of included species, and short discussions of nearly 30 genera are included. Major recent taxonomic changes due to phylogenetic reclassifications of several of the most important genera treated here are also discussed. Techniques to prepare and to observe slides, to set microscopes for Köhler illumination (thereby assuring the optimal resolution of images), and how to make semi-permanent slide mounts are also provided.