Phylogeny and systematics of the parasite Escovopsis associated with attine ants

Abstract

Leaf-cutting ant nests harbor a diverse microbial community, including fungi in the genus Escovopsis. These organisms are considered specific parasites of the fungus cultivated by the ants for food. Few studies have focused on the biology, diversity and evolutionary aspects of the parasite. Here, we aim to explore the diversity of Escovopsis parasites associated with leaf-cutting ants. A collection of 40 strains of the parasite derived from many leaf-cutting ant species collected in different Brazilian biomes will be evaluated using phenotypic and molecular markers. Evolutionary relationships among strains will be inferred using several phylogenetic algorithms. Studies that aim increasing the knowledge about Escovopsis may assist in developing of alternative control methods of these serious agricultural pests, as the current control method is based on the use of chemical insecticides harmful to the environment. Besides to understand the parasite diversity, this proposal will assist in the structuring of national repositories, since DNA sequences from authentic Escovopsis strains will be generated as barcodes. (AU)