Mexico discovery of six new zombie fungi species

Scientists in Mexico have discovered six new species of entomopathogenic fungi in the tropical forests of Jalisco. These organisms, often referred to as ‘zombie fungi,’ are capable of altering the behavior of ants and spiders.

César Ballesteros from the University of Guadalajara explained that once the fungus enters an ant's body, it produces substances that attack the nervous system, modifying the host's behavior. The fungus eventually forces the host to a location scientists call a ‘graveyard,’ where the host dies and the fungus grows to reproduce.

One of the new species, Ophiocordyceps deltoroi, was named in honor of Mexican director Guillermo del Toro to recognize his contributions to the horror and fantasy genres. Researchers noted that some of these fungi produce substances that could potentially be used in the development of medicines for conditions such as cancer, tuberculosis, or multiple sclerosis, though further research is required.