# New zombie fungi species discovery in Jalisco

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-zombie-fungi-species-discovery-in-jalisco
> Updated: 2026-08-17T01:07:10.000Z. Sources: 20. Developments: 2.

Researchers from the University of Guadalajara have identified six new species of entomopathogenic fungi, commonly referred to as ‘zombie fungi’, within the tropical forests of Jalisco, Mexico.

These parasites infect arthropods such as ants and spiders by producing specialized metabolites that manipulate the hosts’ nervous systems. This manipulation directs the insects to move toward specific ‘cemeteries’—locations with optimal light and humidity—where they die and allow the fungus to sprout from their bodies to disperse spores. 

One of the newly discovered species, Ophiocordyceps deltoroi, was named in honor of Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro to recognize his connection to Jalisco and his cinematic interest in monsters. Experts have clarified that these fungi pose no danger to humans due to their high host-specificity and serve an important ecological role by controlling insect populations.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-17: Guillermo del Toro honored as new zombie fungus species discovered in Mexico

Scientists in Jalisco, Mexico, have discovered six species of “zombie fungi” that parasitize insects, including a new species named Ophiocordyceps deltoroi after filmmaker Guillermo del Toro.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/guillermo-del-toro-honored-as-new-zombie-fungus-species-discovered-in-mexico

### 2026-08-14: Jalisco researchers discover six new species of zombie fungi

Scientists in Jalisco, Mexico, have discovered six new species of ‘zombie fungi’ that manipulate the behavior of ants and spiders. One species was named ‘Ophiocordyceps deltoroi’ after filmmaker Guillermo del-T

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexico-discovery-of-six-zombie-fungi-species

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Cite as: New zombie fungi species discovery in Jalisco. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-zombie-fungi-species-discovery-in-jalisco