Mushroom-pests
Guides
Histiostoma
Histiostoma is a genus of astigmatan mites in the family Histiostomatidae, characterized by modified brush-like chelicerae adapted for filtering microbes from substrates. The genus exhibits remarkable ecological diversity, with species occupying habitats ranging from bark beetle galleries and insect associations to aquatic environments and decaying organic matter. Many species form heteromorphic deutonymphs (hypopi) specialized for phoretic dispersal on arthropod hosts. Histiostoma includes economically significant species such as H. feroniarum, a pest of cultivated mushrooms, and H. laboratorium, a notorious contaminant of Drosophila research cultures.
Mycetophilidae
Fungus Gnats
Mycetophilidae is a family of small flies commonly known as fungus gnats, comprising approximately 3,000 described species in 150 genera with the true diversity likely much higher. These nematoceran flies are strongly associated with fungal habitats throughout their life cycle, particularly at the larval stage. Adults are characterized by a distinctly humped thorax, well-developed coxae, and often spinose legs. The family is well-represented in fossil deposits dating to the Cretaceous period, indicating an ancient and diverse lineage.
Sciara
fungus gnats
Sciara is a genus of fungus gnats in the family Sciaridae. The genus has been extensively studied for its unusual genetics, particularly the selective elimination of paternal chromosomes during early embryonic development. Species in this genus are small, delicate flies associated with moist environments rich in organic matter.