DSC_2191 Vegetable caterpillar, or awheto (Ophiocordiceps robertsii) detail of a native fungus parasitic on burrowing caterpillars of the Ghost moth (Aoraia dinoides and Dumbletonius characterifer). The fungal fruiting body develops from the head of the caterpillar. This was the first fungus to be described from New Zealand (Hooker 1836). Maori knew this fungus had antiseptic properties and they burnt vegetable caterpillars to produce the black pigment used for ta moko (tatooing). Lake Kaniere *
11005-45409 Vegetable caterpillar, or awheto (Ophiocordiceps robertsii) a native fungus parasitic on burrowing caterpillars of the Ghost moth (Aoraia dinoides and Dumbletonius characterifer). The fungal fruiting body develops from the head of the caterpillar. This was the first fungus to be described from New Zealand (Hooker 1836). Maori knew this fungus had antiseptic properties and they burnt vegetable caterpillars to produce the black pigment used for ta moko (tatooing). Mamaku Plateau *
DSC_0036 Sugar icing fungus (Beauvaria bassiana) infecting a dead female Long-legged harvestman (Forsteropsalis grimmetti) amongst filmy ferns in coastal forest. Lake Moeraki, South Westland *
