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Fungal entomopathogens in a tritrophic context

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Abstract

Variation in plant quality has an important impact on insect growth and development and there is considerable evidence that plants can also influence an insect’s natural enemies. Here we discuss the potential for plant-mediated effects on fungal entomopathogens. Fungi differ from other insect pathogens in that they infect an insect directly through its cuticle. This means that they are particularly vulnerable to changes in microclimate and properties of the insect cuticle. Potential direct and indirect mechanisms for plant-mediated effects on fungal entomopathogens are discussed. It is clear from these studies that fungal entomopathogens could be affected by plant volatiles and plant surface chemistry. Plant secondary chemicals can also inhibit fungal growth, potentially protecting the insect herbivore. However, the site of action and the mechanism behind these effects in plant-based studies is not always clear. The implications for biocontrol using fungal entomopathogens are discussed.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Judy Myers for her comments and help with Fig. 1 and three reviewers (Judy Pell, Helen Roy & Fernando Vega) for their comments on the manuscript. The authors also acknowledge NSERC for funding.

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  1. Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada

    Jenny S. Cory & Jerry D. Ericsson

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  1. Jenny S. Cory
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  2. Jerry D. Ericsson
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Correspondence to Jenny S. Cory.

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Handling Editor: Helen Roy.

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Cory, J.S., Ericsson, J.D. Fungal entomopathogens in a tritrophic context. BioControl 55, 75–88 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-009-9247-4

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