Sigmoideomycetaceae

Sigmoideomycetaceae is a family of fungi belonging to the phylum Zoopagomycota. While many members of this family are known primarily as entomopathogens or parasites of other fungi, their role in agroecosystems is studied in the context of biological control and their influence on soil microbiota. This is not a classic plant disease in the traditional sense, but a specialized mycosis affecting microorganisms and small pests in the soil.

The causative agents are microscopic fungi from the Sigmoideomycetaceae family. In terms of nutrition, they are often obligate parasites that develop mycelium inside their hosts. From an agronomic perspective, they are of interest as natural regulators of soil nematodes and other microscopic invertebrates, making them an important component of soil health.

These fungi primarily affect microscopic inhabitants of the rhizosphere: nematodes, rotifers, and other small soil animals. In some cases, they may colonize organic debris, contributing to decomposition. Visible symptoms of damage on higher plants are absent, as the action of the fungi is directed toward suppressing pathogens or pests in the root zone.

The development and spread of these fungi depend directly on soil moisture and the presence of a substrate (host populations). They are most active in organic-rich soils with moderate temperatures. Under dry conditions or with the excessive use of chemical fungicides, their activity decreases sharply, which can lead to a disruption of the biological balance in the rhizosphere.

• Limiting the use of broad-spectrum soil fungicides.
• Applying organic fertilizers to support soil biodiversity.
• Practicing crop rotation to control phytonematode populations naturally.
• Monitoring soil biological activity through laboratory testing.

The harmfulness of the Sigmoideomycetaceae family to cultivated plants has not been recorded; on the contrary, their presence in the soil is often correlated with the suppression of pathogenic nematodes. Protection measures are aimed not at destroying these fungi, but at creating conditions conducive to their reproduction. Prevention consists of maintaining a healthy soil microbiome while avoiding methods that cause soil sterilization.