About Ophiocordyceps sphecocephala (Klotzsch ex Berk.) G.H.Sung, J.M.Sung, Hywel-Jones & Spatafora
Ophiocordyceps sphecocephala (Klotzsch ex Berk.) G.H.Sung, J.M.Sung, Hywel-Jones & Spatafora is an insect-pathogenic fungus species that grows inside insects, specifically targeting wasps from the genera Polistes, Tachytes, and Vespa. This fungus has been recorded in regions across the Americas and China. Its physical structures called stromata measure 2–10 cm long and develop an egg-shaped head. The fungus is usually cream or yellow in color. It may have potential medical applications, including possible anti-asthmatic and anti-cancer properties. After Ophiocordyceps sphecocephala takes control of its insect host, the host typically moves to an elevated position, where the fungus eventually grows out from the host’s body. Laboratory studies confirm that this fungus produces higher mycelial yield when grown in medium that contains organic nitrogen. Medium that lacks organic nitrogen leads to reduced mycelial growth, which shows that organic nitrogen is essential for the growth of Ophiocordyceps sphecocephala.
