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Multi-locus molecular phylogenetic analysis reveals four new species and a new record of Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) on dipteran hosts in Thailand

Summary

Researchers studying fungi in Thai forests discovered four previously unknown species of Ophiocordyceps that parasitise different types of flies. Using DNA analysis combined with microscopic examination, scientists confirmed these fungi are distinct species, each specialising on particular fly types like houseflies, fruit flies, and robber flies. This research expands our understanding of the remarkable diversity of fungi that naturally control insect populations, which could have implications for biological pest control.

Background

Ophiocordyceps is an entomopathogenic fungus genus of ecological and economic importance. While species in this genus parasitise insects from various orders, dipteran hosts (true flies) remain understudied despite their ecological significance as pollinators, decomposers, and disease vectors. Previous reports documented limited Ophiocordyceps species associated with adult flies.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the diversity of Ophiocordyceps species infecting flies (Diptera) in Thailand using integrative taxonomic approaches. The researchers examined fungal specimens initially identified as Ophiocordyceps dipterigena to enhance understanding of diversity within this group.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses revealed four new Ophiocordyceps species: O. floriformis on robber flies (Asilidae), O. muscae on houseflies (Musca domestica), O. tabani on horseflies (Tabanus sp.), and O. thilosuensis on fruit flies and soldier flies. Additionally, O. philippinensis was recorded as new to Thailand, establishing the O. dipterigena complex as a well-supported monophyletic clade.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that integrative taxonomic approaches combining morphological and molecular data effectively identify cryptic Ophiocordyceps species with distinct host associations. These findings significantly expand knowledge of dipteran-parasitising entomopathogenic fungi in Thailand and contribute to understanding fungal diversity on dipteran hosts.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Original Research,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.119.155439
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