Zombie-Making Fungi in Nature

Ophiocordyceps unilateralis

This fungus infects ants, forcing them to climb high and die—perfect for fungal growth and spore spread.

Cordyceps militaris

Targets caterpillars, taking over their bodies and sprouting from their heads after death.

Massospora cicadina

Infects cicadas and causes their abdomens to rot off while they continue to fly and spread spores.

Entomophthora muscae

Takes over houseflies, manipulating them to die in high places for optimal spore release.

Pandora formicae

Invades wood ants, altering their behavior and killing them in places perfect for fungal dispersal.

Strongwellsea spp.

Feeds on flies from the inside while keeping them alive and active to spread the infection.

Torrubiella spp.

Infects scale insects, eventually replacing their bodies with fungal structures that burst with spores.