Guillermo del Toro honored as new zombie fungus species discovered in Mexico

Researchers from the University of Guadalajara have identified six species of “zombie fungi” for the first time in Mexico. Found in the tropical forests of Jalisco, these entomopathogenic organisms parasitize insects and other arthropods, such as ants and spiders.

The fungi function by entering the host's body and producing specialized metabolites that interact with the nervous system. This process alters the host's behavior, directing it to specific locations favorable for the fungus to complete its life cycle before the host dies. Once the host is immobilized, the fungus grows out of the body to release new spores.

One of the newly identified species, Ophiocordyceps deltoroi, was named in honor of Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro. The naming recognizes the director's connection to Jalisco and his cinematic focus on fantastic creatures and monsters. Experts note that these fungi are not a danger to humans, as they are highly host-specific, and they play a vital role in ecosystems by naturally controlling insect populations.