Asexual and sexual reproduction are two separate developmental pathways in a Termitomyces species.

ABSTRACT: Although mutualistic symbioses per definition are beneficial for interacting species, conflict may arise if partners reproduce independently. We address how this reproductive conflict is regulated in the obligate mutualistic symbiosis between fungus-growing termites and Termitomyces fungi. Even though the termites and their fungal symbiont disperse independently to establish new colonies, dispersal is correlated in time. The fungal symbiont typically forms mushrooms a few weeks after the colony has produced dispersing alates. It is thought that this timing is due to a trade-off between alate and worker production; alate production reduces resources available for worker production. As workers consume the fungus, reduced numbers of workers will allow mushrooms to 'escape' from the host colon

SUBMITTER: Vreeburg SME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7480157 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature