Insect pathogen
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Vegetable caterpillar (Cordyceps robertsii), also known as awhato, attacks and kills larvae of the puriri moth. (photo Peter Johnston) A pigment used for tattooing was extracted from this fungus. The fungus was burnt and pulverised, with the resultant powder mixed with water to produce a black paste. |
Plant pathogens
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An undescribed Asterina species, causing spots on the leaves of hangehange (Geniostoma ligustrifolium). (photo Peter Johnston) Hundreds of indigenous leaf-spotting fungi remain to be described. |
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There are several Armillaria species indigenous to New Zealand. Although they appear to cause little damage in native forests, they can cause root rots on to introduced plants such as pine and kiwifruit. (photo Peter Johnston). Some Armillaria species are good to eat. |