Habitat association in two genetic groups of the insect-pathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae: uncovering cryptic species?

Article Abstract:

Researchers have discovered two versions of the insect-pathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae that are genetically distinct and are found in two different habitats. This indicates that the habitat drives the selection of these two strains, not the insect host.

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Characterization and ultrastructural localization of Chitinases from Metarhizium anisopliae, M. flavoviride, and Beauveria bassiana during fungal invasion of host (Manduca sexta) cuticle

Article Abstract:

Chitinases from the Metarhizium anisopliae (M. anisopliae), Metarhizium flavoviride and Beauveria bassiana species of entomopathogenic fungi have been characterized and ultrastructurally localized. The fungi were observed during fungal invasion of host (Manducta sexta) cuticle. An acidic chitinase was found to be produced by M. anisopliae during penetration of the cuticle. Data indicated that chitinase release is dependent on the accessibility of its substrate.

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Biochemical characterization and ultrastructural localization of two extracellular trypsins produced by Metarhizium anisopliae in infected insect cuticles

Article Abstract:

Two isoforms of proteinase 2 (Pr2), the fungal serine proteinase, are secreted by infection structures on the cuticles of cockroaches. The two trypsin components with isoelectric points of 4.4 and 4.9 are separated by analytical and preparative isoelectric focusing methods. Two-dimensional gelatin-sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and enzyme overlay membranes are used to analyze the catalytic properties of the proteases. The Pr2 isoforms attack at the carboxyl sides of positively charged amino acids.

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