by Cristian Solari
Ophiocordyceps unilateralis (+) Parasitism (-) Camponotus pennsylvanicus
Observation
Zombie Ants
The spores germinate inside the ant’s respiratory track and grows towards the brain while feeding on soft tissues. Once the fungus reaches the brain, it induces behavioral changes such that the ant bites the underside of the leaves. There the ant await death while the fungus grow within.
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