Environmental Aspects of Interactions Of Fungi And Fungus-like Organisms With Insects

Abstract

Fungi and fungus-like organisms often occupy the same ecological niches as insects, and their coexistence has driven both groups to develop adaptive strategies essential for survival. The life strategies of fungi and fungus-like organisms frequently overlap with those of insects, sometimes resulting in mutual dependence between these organisms. However, such interactions remain insufficiently studied and are often presented only in a fragmented manner. Furthermore, data concerning certain insect orders are still lacking. This review highlights that, despite the existence of numerous scientific studies, there remain insect orders for which no records of interactions with fungi have been found. This may reflect either the actual absence of such relationships or the limited research interest in these taxa. The present paper provides an overview of selected, most important interactions between fungi (and fungus-like organisms) and insects. Its aim is to illustrate the diversity of these relationships, to familiarize readers with their ecological significance, and to indicate potential directions for further research. The review also emphasizes that a better understanding of fungal–insect interactions may have valuable practical and economic implications.