The concept of a “zombie fungus” popularized by the video game and TV show The Last of Us may seem fictional, but a real-world counterpart does exist. Known scientifically as Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, or more commonly as cordyceps, this fungus affects insects rather than humans.
Real-Life Zombie Fungus
- Scientific Background: Ophiocordyceps unilateralis primarily infects insects like ants and spiders. It has earned the nickname “zombie fungus” due to its unique method of taking over its host’s nervous system and bodily functions.
- Infection Process: The fungus infects its host, draining it of nutrients and eventually consuming it from the inside out. The infected host often becomes immobile as the fungus controls its motor functions. Eventually, the fungus sprouts from the host’s body, releasing spores to continue the reproductive cycle.
- Recent Viral Video: A video showing a tarantula infected by this fungus has gained significant attention. Shared by Chris Ketola on Instagram, the footage has garnered over 21 million views and sparked a wide range of reactions.
Reactions to the Video
- Chris Ketola’s Post: Ketola, the Head Field Research Coordinator for Fauna Forever, shared the video to highlight the fungus’s effects on tarantulas. He noted that this species of Cordyceps is rare, with this being only the third instance he has observed.
- Public Responses: The video has led to various reactions:
- “Please, it’s 2024. Step away from the zombie spores,” commented one user.
- “Please back away from the Cordyceps. This timeline is already too much for me,” wrote another.
- “So… this is how it starts,” another user remarked.
- “Imagine the trauma of this happening to you, and then a camera crew pops out of nowhere and films you while you’re just frozen like that,” a fourth commented.
- “Burn it with fire,” shared a fifth user.
Chris Ketola’s Work
Chris Ketola is known for his educational videos on wildlife, particularly through his role at Fauna Forever. His Instagram page features various clips of him discussing and rescuing wildlife, often showcasing both fascinating and alarming aspects of the natural world.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is Ophiocordyceps unilateralis commonly known as?
- a) Zombie Fungus
- b) Cordyceps
- c) Tarantula Fungus
- d) Insect Fungus
- How does the zombie fungus affect its host?
- a) It enhances the host’s abilities
- b) It controls the host’s nervous system and consumes it
- c) It creates a protective barrier around the host
- d) It turns the host into a new species
- How many views did the viral video of the infected tarantula receive?
- a) 10 million
- b) 15 million
- c) 21 million
- d) 25 million
- What is Chris Ketola’s role at Fauna Forever?
- a) Head of Social Media
- b) Head Field Research Coordinator
- c) Wildlife Photographer
- d) Program Director
- What has been a common reaction to the video on social media?
- a) Indifference
- b) Enthusiasm for zombie creatures
- c) Fear and shock
- d) Requests for more videos