Septobasidium

fungal genus

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Septobasidium is a genus of fungi belonging to the family Septobasidiaceae. These fungi are characterized by smooth shelf-like structures and a well-developed hypobasidium.1

Septobasidium species exhibit a unique parasitic relationship with scale insects that feed on trees. The fungus forms structures over insect colonies, and while it feeds on some of the insects by inserting haustoria into their bodies, it does not kill them. This parasitism renders the affected insects sterile. The survival and spread of both the insect species and the fungus are facilitated by the uninfected insects, which protect the infected ones from predators. This symbiotic relationship is an example of how fungi can interact with other organisms in complex ways.2

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fungus
Parasitism in plants and insects
For example, the fungal genus Septobasidium is parasitic on scale insects (order Homoptera) that feed on trees. The mycelium forms elaborate structures over colonies of insects feeding on the bark. Each insect sinks its proboscis (tubular sucking organ) into the bark and remains there the rest of its life, sucking…
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For example, the fungal genus Septobasidium is parasitic on scale insects (order Homoptera) that feed on trees. The mycelium forms elaborate structures over colonies of insects feeding on the bark. Each insect sinks its proboscis (tubular sucking organ) into the bark and remains there the rest of its life, sucking…
Read More