Zombie-Ant Fungus

Ophiocordyceps is the scientific name for this fungus, which sounds like any other boring fungus, but this particular one has unique characteristics that make it stand out from the rest.
Apparent zombification of ants.

Ophiocordyceps releases spores onto the ground of the rainforest, which are then picked up by ants. The spore infects the ant in a way that seems to take over it's mind. Leaving it shambling its way away from the nest, convulsing occasionally, and making 'drunken' movements as if it isn't familiar with walking anymore.

At around noon the ant climbs roughly 25 centimeters from the ground to a plant and bites into the main vein of a leaf. It's jaw locks in and it is now unable to move. From here, the ant dies, but that is not the end of this interesting species of fungus.

Within a few days, the fungus drains the nutrients from the leaf and the ant corpse, and then busts a new stalk out of the decomposing ant's head.

This stalk releases it's own spores onto the forest floor, which are then picked up respectively by new ants, and the cycle continues.

Alfred Russell Wallace began research on Ophiocordyceps in the 19th century. Since then, possibly hundreds of new strains of this fungus have been found.


Mother Nature's Zombie Slayer?
Recent studies on the zombie fungus have shown a hyperparasite that seems to coat the ant corpse, and the stalk as it breaks the surface, to prevent it from spreading the spores. As the story continues to unfold, I will update.

I'm not saying zombies are coming, or in any way that this is on it's way to spreading to humans... but I'd keep at least a decorative sword around the house just in case. ^_^

I hope you enjoy, and remember, aim for the brain.