NSCPHD1008 Methods in insect pathology with focus on entomopathogenic fungi

Hands on introduction to methods used in insect pathology with focus on entomopathogenic fungi (Ascospherales, Entomophthorales and Hypocreales). The main areas include: a) Identification and taxonomy b) Isolation of entomopathogenic fungi from insects c) In vitro and in vivo cultivation d) Cryo-preservation of in vitro cultures of entomopathogenic fungi for long term storage e) Bioassay techniques of entomopathogenic fungi, including estimation of dose, analysis of data.

The course covers theoretical and practical aspects of identification and taxonomy of Ascospherales, Entomophthorales and Hypocreales. This part includes preparation of sexual and asexual spore slides (Ascomata, resting spore and conidia), brief introduction to mycological terms used for classification and identification. Training in identification will be performed on class material covering the most common genera of insectpathogenic fungi and include different staining methods.

The course will give an introduction to in vitro growth of entomopathogenic fungi (in liquid and solid media). Furthermore, the course will cover techniques for in vitro isolation of entomopathogenic fungi from diseased insects followed by Cryo-preservation of in vitro cultures at -80 degrees of entomopathogenic fungi for long term storage.

Bioassay techniques of entomopathogenic fungi will cover the most commonly used assay techniques (per os, conidia shower or dipping) including spore concentration preparations and spore germination tests. Further, methods for estimation of doses and data recording will be included. Finally, data analysis will be discussed and various statistical packages will be presented.