Cordyceps usually infects insects at different stages of their development ranging from insect larvae to adult.
Insect’s epidermis is covered with a thick layer of cuticle (procuticle and epicuticle) which is also known as integument. Insect’s integument comprises chitin, proteins and lipids.
Beside this, it also contains variety of enzymes and phenolic compounds (Leger et al. 1991).
Epidermis is formed by a single layer of epithelial cells followed by a thick layer of procuticle.
Procuticle is differentiated into an inner soft part known as an endocuticle while the outer hard part is called exocuticle.
Epicuticle and wax are known to constitute the outermost covering of the cuticle.