Massospora

Definition

A genus of entomopathogenic fungi in the family Entomophthoraceae (order Entomophthorales) that infects and sterilizes adult cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae). Species in this genus produce thick-walled resting spores that overwinter in soil and forcibly discharged conidia that spread horizontally during the brief adult emergence period of their hosts. Infection typically destroys the reproductive organs and induces behavioral manipulation, including hypersexual activity that promotes spore transmission.

Etymology

From Greek massōs (breast, udder) + spora (seed, spore), referring to the swollen, spore-filled appearance of infected host abdomens.

Example

Massospora cicadina infects periodical cicadas (Magicicada spp.) of Brood X, producing visible white to yellowish spore masses that replace the terminal abdominal segments of infected males; these males continue to attempt mating, spreading conidia to healthy individuals.

Related Terms

• entomopathogenic fungus
• Entomophthoraceae
• cicada
• Magicicada
• behavioral manipulation
• resting spore
• conidium
• Horizontal transmission
• periodical cicada

Usage Notes

Historically classified in Zygomycota; modern phylogenetics places Massospora in Entomophthoromycota (subphylum). The genus is strictly host-specific to cicadas and is not to be confused with generalist entomopathogens like Beauveria or Metarhizium. Field identification relies on the distinctive abdominal rupture and spore masses in infected adults during summer emergence events.