| Abstract Detail
Mycological Section Pletzer, Jordan [1], Meneses, Nashelly [1]. Variation of Insect Abundance on Bioluminescent Fungi. Bioluminescence is common in deep-sea organisms but rare on land. Fungi are one of the few organisms on land that are bioluminescent. The ultimate cause of bioluminescence in fungi is not fully understood. I tested two hypotheses that might explain bioluminescence in fungi: 1) attraction of spore dispersers and 2) attraction of predatory insects as a defense against fungivorous insects. I collected insects from glowing and non-glowing fruiting bodies of Mycena chlorophos, Filoboletus manipularis, and an unidentified species. Preliminary results of insect abundance on M. chlorophos and F. manipularis showed insects favoring glowing fruiting bodies. Insect abundance on the unidentified species suggests strong support for the attraction of insects as well (N = 62, F = 12.38, P = 0.002). In addition, I observed stem, cap, and gills of F. manipularis glowing at different times. This suggests bioluminescence is related to spore maturation of the fruiting body. Broader Impacts:
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1 - Northern Arizona University, Biology, 277 East Sheffield Ct., Gilbert, AZ, 85296, USA
Keywords:
Fungi
Mushroom
Bioluminescent
Insects
CNMI
Saipan.
Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Grand Salon A - D/Riverside Hilton
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2013
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PMY001
Abstract ID:209
Candidate for Awards:None |
