Transmission and scanning electron microscope observations on the trapping of nematodes by Dactylaria Candida

The host–predator relationship of the myceliophagous nematode Aphelenchus avenae Bastian and the predaceous hyphomycete Dactylaria Candida (Nees) Sacc. was investigated using scanning electron microscopy of whole-mount preparations and transmission electron microscopy of ultrathin resin (Spurr) sections. Trapping knobs and knobs with associated hyphae were found to be effective nematode-trapping agents. The ultrastructure of the trapping apparatus and of the nematodes and hyphae during the infection process is reported herein, as is the phenomenon of postinfection 'breakout.' Nonconstricting rings were not observed during this study.

Light microscope observations on the trapping of nematodes by Dactylaria Candida

The host–predator relationship of the myceliophagous nematode Aphelenchus avenue Bastian and the predaceous hyphomycete Dactylaria Candida (Nees) Sacc. was investigated under laboratory conditions, using phase-contrast microscopy of whole-mount preparations and thin resin (Spurr) sections. Adhesive trapping knobs were profusely produced by D. Candida and these proved efficient nematode-trapping agents. Nonconstricting rings were rare and never seen to be operative. Dactylaria Candida was found to be capable of parasitizing nematode eggs.

On nematode-destroying fungi in Finland

In the investigation concerning the microflora of 60 samples, collected from the »saunas» (bath house) from various parts of Finland, and consisting of shavings from the floors and platforms with benches, it was established that many of the samples were infected by nematodes; nematode-destroying fungus species, belonging to Fungi imperfecti were established simultaneously. Of these, Arthrobotrys superba has been previously reported in Finnish literature; new in Finland are the following ten fungi: Nematoctonus concurrens, N. leiosporus, Cephalosporium balanoides, Harposporium lilliputanum, H. oxycoracum, Dactylaria candida, Arthrobotrys oligospora, A. dactyloides, Dactylella brochopaga and D. gephyropaga.