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Pleoanamorphic life cycle of Exophiala (Wangiella) dermatitidis
G S de Hoog1, K Takeo, S Yoshida
1Research Center for Pathogenic Fungi and Microbial Toxicoses, Chiba University, Japan.
Abstract:
The anamorph life cycle of the black yeast Exophiala (Wangiella) dermatitidis is described. The fungus is dimorphic, yeast cells being the prevalent form of propagation. The fungus is strongly hydrophilic, probably completing its anamorph life cycle in submersion. Adaptation to dry conditions is slow. Types of conidiogenesis comprise annellidic, phialidic and sympodial reproduction, in addition to isotropic development. Phialoconidia fail to germinate under the conditions tested, and thus may have a function other than dispersal. Sterile, multicellular bodies resembling a Capronia teleomorph are described.
Insights
The black yeast Exophiala (Wangiella) dermatitidis exhibits dimorphism, with yeast cells being the primary propagation form. Its anamorph life cycle likely occurs in aquatic environments, showing slow adaptation to dry conditions.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Fungal Biology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Exophiala (Wangiella) dermatitidis is a dimorphic black yeast.
- Understanding its life cycle is crucial for its study and control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the anamorph life cycle of Exophiala (Wangiella) dermatitidis.
- To investigate its reproductive strategies and environmental adaptations.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic observation of fungal morphology and development.
- Culturing under various conditions to assess growth and reproduction.
- Analysis of conidiogenesis types.
Main Results:
- Yeast cells are the predominant form for propagation.
- The fungus is strongly hydrophilic, suggesting submersion for life cycle completion.
- Slow adaptation to dry conditions was observed.
- Multiple conidiogenesis types (annellidic, phialidic, sympodial) and isotropic development were identified.
- Phialoconidia failed to germinate, indicating a potential non-dispersal function.
- Sterile, multicellular bodies resembling a Capronia teleomorph were noted.
Conclusions:
- Exophiala (Wangiella) dermatitidis possesses a complex anamorph life cycle with diverse reproductive mechanisms.
- Its strong hydrophilicity influences its ecological niche and life cycle progression.
- The unique characteristics of phialoconidia and teleomorph-like structures warrant further investigation.