Predatory fungi with application potential [Räuberische Pilze mit Anwendungspotenzial]

Nematode-trapping fungi, such as Duddingtonia flagrans, are fascinating carnivorous microorganisms. In a nutrient-rich environment they live as saprotrophs, but if nutrients are scarce and in the presence of nematodes, they can switch to a predatory lifestyle. The switch is characterized by the formation of complex, adhesive trap structures. The interaction requires a sophisticated interspecies communication with pheromones, secondary metabolites, and virulence factors.