Anurida granaria (Collembola) and Peziza arvernensis (Ascomycota) in Mycophagy Association at Riparian Zone in Southern Brazil

Abstract

Riparian zones are important areas for biodiversity and preservation, where springtails and fungi contribute to nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. This study aimed to report a mycophagy interaction involving a colony of Anurida granaria with Peziza arvernensis. In the riparian zone, the use of apothecia as a nutritional source for springtail colonies was investigated. The collected data were analyzed, considering the fungal structures and the number of springtails. A colony of 515 springtails found in the apothecium was observed over a period of 5 weeks. Feeding events, courtship behavior, molting, and oviposition were recorded. The survival and mortality rates of the colony fluctuated during the observation period but remained stable between weeks 4 and 5. This study presents the first report involving P. arvernensis and A. granaria in a mycophagic association, highlighting the significance of this dynamic in benefiting the life cycle and fungal dispersion in riparian zones.