Beneficial microorganisms
insect hosts. The fungi produce spores that attach to the insect's cuticle (outer covering). Once attached, the spores germinate, penetrate the cuticle, and [...] and colonize the insect's body. Internal damage: Once inside the insect, the fungus proliferates, causing internal damage. This can lead to the insect's death [...] As the insect succumbs to the fungal infection, the fungus continues to grow. Eventually, it produces more spores, which can be released into the environment