Identification and Phylogeny of Akanthomyces: A Member of the Cordycipitaceae

The genus Akanthomyces is an important ascomycetous fungus known for parasitizing insects and pests. It is also known to occur as endophytes on several plant species. Though recent research has explored the vast diversity of Akanthomyces from different corners of the world, it remains one of the least explored genera of entomopathogenic fungi. Due to the advancement of molecular methods, new species are constantly erected, primarily from Asian countries (China and Thailand). However, from India’s perspective, the genus is poorly represented. Very few studies have reported the occurrence of Akanthomyces. During the forest survey, a team of entomologists collected an insect specimen colonized with a possible entomopathogen. After successful isolation and morphological observation, the fungus was identified as an Akanthomyces species. The large subunit of the nrDNA (28LSU) region was amplified and analysed, and phylogenetic analysis revealed the identity, but the exact species was not able to be established due to a lack of sequence data (additional genes) to resolve the identity. The present review and research report the preliminary occurrence of Akanthomyces in Western Ghats regions covering Kerala Forest regions and emphasize diversity of Akanthomyces associated with various insect pests as well as endophytic association with several angiosperm plants.