Nomuraea

Definition

A genus of entomopathogenic fungi in the family Clavicipitaceae (phylum Ascomycota) that infect and kill insects, historically recognized by their green or yellow-green conidial masses and now understood as asexual states (anamorphs) within the Hypocreales.

Etymology

Example

Nomuraea rileyi (formerly used for several species now split into N. rileyi and N. owariensis) produces dense green sporulation on lepidopteran cadavers and is mass-produced as a microbial biocontrol agent against armyworms and soybean loopers.

Related Terms

• entomopathogenic fungi
• anamorph
• Clavicipitaceae
• Metarhizium
• Beauveria
• Biological control

Usage Notes

Species boundaries in Nomuraea have been revised through molecular phylogenetics; older literature may use 'Nomuraea rileyi' broadly where modern taxonomy distinguishes multiple species. The genus is closely related to Metarhizium and other clavicipitaceous entomopathogens, with which it shares convergent traits in host invasion and conidial dispersal.