4.1.5. Hyperparasites of smuts and bunts
Reports of hyperparasitic fungi on smut and bunt fungi (Basidiomycota:
Ustilaginomycotina) are scarce (Hawksworth, 1981). Species of Fusarium may grow on Ustilago spp., and the infections by
these parasites can render the edible galls produced by Ustilago
maydis poisonous (Gams et al., 2004; Wollenweber and Reinking,
1935). Aphanocladium album, a common parasite of rust fungi, has
also been reported growing on teliospores of Ustilaginales (Koç and
Défago, 1983). Species of Tilletiopsis (Exobasidiomycetes:
Entylomatales) have been found growing on lesions caused by Entyloma (Exobasidiomycetes: Entylomatales), although
their hyperparasitic activity has not been demonstrated (Brady, 1960).