Role of trap lectins in the specificity of nematode capture by fungi

Abstract

Seven adhesive-producing nematode-trapping fungi were tested for their ability to capture nine different nematodes. The nematodes included species that are free living as well as plant and insect parasites. The fungi displayed no selectivity. Each fungus was able to trap and consume all of the different nematodes tested. A study of cuticle surface saccharides of five of the nematodes revealed the presence on all the nematodes of glucose–mannose and N-acetylgalactosamine residues. L-Fucose residues were not found on any of the nematodes. The involvement of lectins in the capture of prey by nematode-trapping fungi is discussed.