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The Symbiotic Fungus Leucoagaricus gongylophorus (Moller) Singer (Agaricales, Agaricaceae) as a Target Organism to Control Leaf-Cutting Ants

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Araujo, Sean ; Seibert, Janaina ; Ruani, Ana ; de la Cruz, Ricardo ; Cruz, Artur ; Pereira, Alana ; Zandonai, Dorai ; Forim, Moacir ; Silva, Maria Fatima ; Bueno, Odair ; Fernandes, Joao
Total Authors: 11
Document type: Journal article
Source: INSECTS; v. 13, n. 4, p. 28-pg., 2022-04-01.
Abstract

Simple Summary The most used approach to control leaf-cutting ants (which cause damage in agricultural areas) is the application of synthetic chemical compounds that directly affect these insects. But another approach is the use of natural substances that attack the symbiotic fungus responsible for many aspects of the survival of the nest. In this study, we discuss the natural substances already reported in the literature to have fungicidal activity and how they could be applicable as products for the control of leaf-cutting ants. Atta and Acromyrmex are the main genera of leaf-cutting ants present in North and South America, causing extensive damage to agroforestry. Control of the ants requires high handling costs with few effective methods available to decrease the losses. The symbiosis between the leaf-cutting ants and the fungus Leucoagaricus gongylophorus is essential for ant nest survival. Therefore, L. gongylophorus may be a key target in controlling leaf-cutting ants, since its reduction may cause an imbalance in the symbiosis necessary to maintain the nest. Among the options for natural fungal control, plant species are considered important sources of compounds belonging to several classes of natural products that show potential as antifungal agents. This review also presents studies that establish that the antagonist fungi from the Escovopsis and Trichoderma genera effectively reduce the development of L. gongylophorus. The development of nanostructured delivery systems, which have shown advantages over conventional formulations, is suggested for ant control; no commercial nanotechnology-based product has yet been developed, and this appears to be a new approach for future studies. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 16/12304-2 - Chemical study of the symbiont fungus Leucoagaricus gongylophorus in co-culture with other fungus involved in the garden of leaf-cutter ants
Grantee:Alana Kelyene Pereira
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
FAPESP's process: 18/21936-8 - Characterization of the ecological function of the black yeast Phialophora fastigiata associated with leaf cutting ants
Grantee:Alana Kelyene Pereira
Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate (Direct)
FAPESP's process: 20/00819-3 - Contribution to integrated studies for the control of leaf-cutting ants: nanoemulsions and nanoencapsulation of natural products and of metal-natural products complexes
Grantee:Janaina Brandão Seibert
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
FAPESP's process: 12/25299-6 - Integrated studies for leaf cutting control
Grantee:João Batista Fernandes
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
FAPESP's process: 20/03032-4 - Contribution to integrated studies for the control of leaf-cutting ants: nanoemulsions and nanoencapsulation of natural products and metal complexes
Grantee:Ana Paula Ruani
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral