New Zombie Fungi Species Discovered in Mexico

Scientists in the Mexican state of Jalisco have identified six new species of parasitic fungi capable of altering the behavior of ants and spiders, the first such discovery in the country. Researchers from the University of Guadalajara described the fungi, which infect their hosts and gradually take control of their behavior.

According to scientist César Ballesteros, once the fungi enter an ant's body, they produce substances that affect its nervous system. The insect then begins to move erratically, heading toward areas with suitable humidity and light where the bodies of previously infected ants have gathered. Before dying, the ant clings to a surface with its mandibles and legs, providing a base on which the fungus continues to grow.

One of the newly identified species was named Ophiocordyceps deltoroi in honor of Mexican director Guillermo del Toro, a Jalisco native known for his horror and fantasy films.

The discovery is significant for Mexican science, as only one similar species had previously been described in the country. Scientists note that some of these fungi produce substances that could be of interest for drug development.

(dw, bak)