The symbiosis between Philidris ants and the ant-plant Dischidia major includes fungal and algal associates

Dischidia major is an epiphyte with pitcher leaves that serve as nests for ants. We investigated this ant-plant symbiosis in two sites southeastern Thailand, Rayong and Trat, using a morphological molecular approach. In our study sites, D. was colonized by one monomorphic ant species of genus Philidris. The inner surface the had black green lining composed intermingled coccoid cells filaments algae fungi, reminiscent biofilm structure. Microscopic investigation suggested they belonged to Trebouxia (coccoid cells) Trentepohliaceae (filaments). Molecular environmental samples pure cultures fungi revealed five Chaetothyriales four Capnodiales, among which have already been isolated from symbioses Africa South America were described known various environments around world. One appears be undescribed species. Thus, most fungal associates likely ubiquitous Our highlights need include identity functional ecology microbes studies evolutionary symbioses.