DSC_2282 Dwarf caterpillar club fungus (Akanthomyces tuberculatus) an entomopathogenic fungus which typically grow by infecting the larva or the mature moth with spores. These germinate and grow to slowly consume the insect till it dies. At which time they then produces spore bearing structures. Smoke-ho Creek, Westland *
DSC_8101082 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). Arnold River, Lake Brunner *
DSC_8101065 Vegetable caterpillar, or awheto (Ophiocordiceps robertsii) detail of fruit body. 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). Arnold River, Lake Brunner *
