Did you know… Zombie 🧟‍♂️

There are certain fungi known as "zombie fungi" that can infect and manipulate the behavior of their host organisms. This phenomenon is fascinating and occurs in various species of fungi, particularly within the order Ophiocordyceps.

One well-known example is the fungus Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, which infects ants. When an ant comes into contact with the spores of this fungus, they can penetrate the ant's exoskeleton and begin to grow inside its body. The fungus then takes control of the ant's central nervous system, altering its behavior.

Infected ants are often compelled to leave their usual habitat and ascend to a higher position, such as the underside of a leaf or a twig. Once there, the fungus continues to grow and eventually kills the ant. The fungus then produces spore-bearing structures, which burst from the ant's body and release spores, allowing the cycle to continue and infect other ants.

This remarkable manipulation of behavior by the fungus is an adaptation that helps ensure its own survival and dispersal. Similar examples of fungal parasites manipulating the behavior of their hosts can be found in other organisms as well. 🍄🧟‍♂️😱

[Disjehdiajw]

Not exactly, the fungi take control of small insects like ants and then use them to spread their spores and take control of other small insects. They aren’t creating anything