New Insights on the Mode of Action of Fungal Pathogens of Invertebrates for Improving Their Biocontrol Performance

Abstract

The main fungal pathogens of invertebrates (FPI), nematophagous fungi and entomopathogenic fungi, have an important lifestyle overlapping. This is mainly due to the characteristics in common that their host share. Both groups of biocontrol agents share pathogenic determinants because the barriers of nematodes and insects are evolutionary conserved. Recently endophytism has been found a new aspect of the mode of action of FPI which has a potential relevance in biocontrol performance. The rationale is because they can modulate plant defences and because they act where their pest targets live and act. Natural vegetation is a reservoir root endophytes and subsequently a microbe group to screen for new biocontrol agents of plant-parasitic nematodes and root dwelling insect pests. We have found that FPI are compatible with chitosan natural compounds which may enhance their biocontrol potential.