Studies on the Nutritional Relationship of Larval Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) with Smittium culisetae (Trichomycetes)

Abstract

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Phylogenetic interpretations and ecological potentials of the Mesomycetozoea (Ichthyosporea)

“…This fungus grows prolifically in the hindguts of the larvae. However, in this case, Horn & Lichtwardt (1981) concluded that this fungus provides essential nutrients needed for the growth of the larvae, suggesting a mutualistic relationship. However, these relationships need to be precisely defined by "Omics" molecular studies.…”

“…Furthermore, the precise roles of symbionts are often not even known. An interesting study of the symbiotic relationship between one putative host (larval Aedes aegypti, Diptera) and one putative commensal fungus (Smittium culisetae, Trichomycetes) was conducted by Horn & Lichtwardt (1981). This fungus grows prolifically in the hindguts of the larvae.…”

Trichomycete gut fungi in Australian aquatic insect larvae

“…quinquefasciatus. Smittium culisetae may benefit mosquito larvae raised under conditions of nutritient deficiency (Horn and Lichtwardt 1981). In contrast, Sm.…”

Diversity and functions of microscopic fungi: a missing component in pelagic food webs

“…The roles and importance of Trichomycetes in pelagic food webs are not known at all. Horn and Lichtwardt (1981) have demonstrated, experimentally, that the Trichomycetes Smittium culisetae in the hindgut of the aquatic mosquito larvae Aedes aegypti could serve as a source of essential elements for insect growth, primarily of sterols and B-vitamin (Lichtwardt et al 2003). Similar to the case of fungi that can improve the palatability of leaves for macroinvertebrates in wetlands and running waters (Suberkropp et al 1983), mutualistic Trichomycete fungi may be able to improve the assimilation of recalcitrant compounds directly in the gut of their hosts.…”