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New entomopathogenic species in the Clavicipitaceae family (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) from the subtropical forests of Fujian, China

Summary

Scientists discovered four new or newly recorded fungal species in the forests of Fujian, China that infect insects and could potentially be used for natural pest control. These fungi belong to a family called Clavicipitaceae and were identified using advanced genetic analysis combined with microscopic examination. The findings demonstrate that there is still much to discover about fungal diversity in Chinese subtropical forests, which could help develop more environmentally friendly pest management strategies.

Background

Entomopathogenic fungi play a crucial role in ecological regulation of insect populations and can be exploited for pest control and natural products discovery. The Clavicipitaceae family comprises at least 53 genera with over 750 species distributed across various ecosystems. The biodiversity of entomopathogenic fungi in subtropical forests of China remains underexplored.

Objective

To examine the biodiversity of entomogenous fungi in subtropical forests of Fujian Province, China, through collection of fungal-infected insect specimens and molecular phylogenetic characterization to identify new species within the Clavicipitaceae family.

Results

Through comprehensive survey and multilocus molecular phylogenetic analysis, three novel species were identified: Albacillium fuzhouense sp. nov., Conoideocrella gongyashanensis sp. nov., and Neoaraneomyces wuyishanensis sp. nov., as well as the newly recorded Metarhizium cicadae. Each new species was distinguished by unique morphological characteristics and strong phylogenetic support values.

Conclusion

The discoveries enrich understanding of biodiversity within the Clavicipitaceae family and can contribute to development of new pest control strategies and natural products discovery. The findings highlight the rich fungal diversity in subtropical Chinese forests and the importance of continued exploration.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Survey and Description Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40099183, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1532341
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