Fungi Fact: Zombie Fungi in Insects 😱🐜

There are several kinds of parasitic fungi that infect insects and turn them into “Zombies”!

A Few Examples:

·     Cordyceps militaris: This fungus infects caterpillars and other insects. It takes over their bodies, forcing them to climb to elevated areas before the fungus kills the host and sprouts from its body, releasing spores.

·     Ophiocordyceps unilateralis: Targets ants, the spores penetrate the exoskeleton and grow inside the ant, slowly taking over its nervous system and muscle control. At a certain point, the fungus compels the ant to bite down on a leaf or twig with its mandibles, anchoring itself in place in a “death grip.” The ant dies shortly afterward.

·     Massospora cicadina: This fungus infects cicadas, taking control of their bodies and causing the lower half of the insect to disintegrate. Infected cicadas continue to fly and mate, unknowingly spreading fungal spores.

·     Entomophthora muscae: Targeting flies, this fungus compels infected flies to land on a surface and spread their wings before death, positioning them perfectly to maximize spore dispersal.

Each of these fungi uses its host not only for nourishment but also as a vehicle to propagate its spores, turning the insect into a tool for fungal reproduction.

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