Abstract
Members of the class Laboulbeniomycetes include extraordinary fungi that are obligatorily associated with arthropods, either for dispersal (Pyxidiophorales) or as biotrophic microparasites (Herpomycetales, Laboulbeniales). Morphologically, Herpomycetales and Laboulbeniales are distinct from other ascomycetes in producing unique three-dimensional structures of determinate growth resulting from mitotic divisions.
They have the highest diversity in the tropics, but many species may also be found in temperate regions. Recent progress in their study and the use of molecular characters has allowed for the discovery of new species, revealed cryptic diversity, and helped to better understand their evolutionary relationships.
These fungi are also being considered for biological control and as model species in studies of the coevolution of hosts and their parasites.