Neozygites floridana is an entomopathogenic fungus that attacks the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae.  This fungus is an important agent in the natural control of spider mites, which is a sporadic pest of corn, soybean, vegetables, and other Midwest crops.

The infective stage for Neozygites often is an adhesive spore that becomes attached to a mite.  The illustration below shows an adhesive spore removed from the cuticle of a mite:
Neozygites adhesive spores

Once infected, fungal cells called "hyphal bodies" begin growing within the body cavity of the host.  The mite continues to feed and appears active during these early stages, but eventually it appears sluggish as vital organs are affected.  These illustrations show hyphal bodies extracted from the body fluids of mites:
Neozygites hyphae

Neozygites hyphae

As the hyphae mature, they, elongate, rupture through the mite's skin, and produce spore-forming bodies.  The illustration below shows hyphae in the elongation process:

Neozygites budding


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