Which Insects Are Affected By Cordycepts?

Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that infects insects and arthropods, turning them into “zombies” before killing them and sprouting stems from their corpses. It is known to have negative effects on human health, including the zombie-creating fungus in The Last of Us. Researchers have identified over 200 species of Ophiocordyceps that can infect hosts from 10 insect orders and spiders, though not all lead to behavioral changes.

Both Cordyceps and Ophiocordyceps are fungi genera with about 750 species, many of which are parasitic. Cordyceps attacks mainly insect larvae, with few reports on pupa and adults. The fungus invades and gradually replaces the host tissue by its mycelium. Some types of arthropods that Cordyceps fungi may infect include ants, beetles, locusts, butterflies, moths, and spiders.

The fungus feeds on its victim’s innards until it’s ready, and it primarily targets ants from the tribe Camponotini, including carpenter ants (genus Camponotus). Cordyceps militaris, or Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, is a real fungus that parasitizes the brains of insects like ants or spiders. Diverse variants of Cordyceps have had more than 1, 500 years of use in Chinese medicine. Most Cordyceps species are endoparasitoids, parasitic mainly on insects.

In summary, Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that infects insects and arthropods, turning them into “zombies” before killing them and sprouting stems from their corpses. It has been used in Chinese medicine for over 1, 500 years and is known for its potential to control humans.

Can Cordyceps Infect Spiders?

A parasitic fungus from the genus Cordyceps, discovered in Brazil, specifically infects and kills spiders, ants, and other insects by turning them into "zombies." The Cordyceps infection process involves the fungus taking over the host's body, ultimately killing it and sprouting spores from the deceased organism’s back, legs, and head. This real-life phenomenon inspired the popular video game and HBO series "The Last of Us," where a mutated Cordyceps fungus causes a global pandemic, transforming humans into zombie-like "infected."

The real Cordyceps species, particularly Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, commonly known as the zombie-ant fungus, primarily targets ants and spiders. These fungi are highly species-specific, making the likelihood of them infecting humans extremely low, as noted by experts like Charissa de Bekker. Araneopathogenic fungi, which exclusively target spiders, belong to the family Cordycipitaceae, encompassing genera such as Gibellula and Cordyceps. These fungi exhibit a diverse parasitic relationship with various insects, including caterpillars and beetles, each species evolving to infect specific hosts.

Recently, a rare video emerged showing a tarantula being overtaken by the zombie fungus, sparking fear among viewers. Additionally, cover photos, such as one featuring a daddy long legs spider engulfed by Cordyceps, highlight the dramatic impact of these fungi. Understanding the diversity and behavior of Gibellula and other Cordyceps species is crucial for comprehending their role in ecosystems and their potential influence on popular culture representations like "The Last of Us."

Who Should Avoid Cordyceps?

People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or children should avoid cordyceps due to insufficient safety data. It's crucial to inform your surgeon if you are taking cordyceps since it may heighten bleeding risks during surgery. Avoid cordyceps if you have cancer, type 2 diabetes, a bleeding disorder, or are on blood thinners. Those with autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis should also refrain from use, as cordyceps may exacerbate symptoms. It's advisable to stay cautious and not use cordyceps if you are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, as these might interact negatively.

Additionally, children should only use cordyceps supplements if advised by a healthcare professional due to a lack of sufficient studies on safety and appropriate doses. Pregnant and nursing women, or individuals with auto-immune disorders, should particularly avoid cordyceps to mitigate any potential health risks. The properties of cordyceps, especially the well-known species Cordyceps Sinensis and Cordyceps Militaris, warrant careful consideration of who should consume them.

Overall, detailed guidelines recommend avoiding cordyceps for those with specific health conditions or upcoming surgical procedures to prevent adverse effects, particularly related to blood clotting and symptom management in chronic diseases.

What Does Cordyceps Do To The Brain?

The study demonstrated that Cordyceps polypeptide enhances learning and memory in mice, elevates serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, lowers malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, decreases acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and boosts Na+-K+-ATPase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, along with increasing GABA and glutamate levels in brain tissue. Cordyceps mushrooms have attracted interest for their neuroprotective potential, evidenced by their bioactive compounds that contribute to neuronal protection and cognitive enhancement.

Research indicates that Cordyceps can ameliorate memory deficits and neuronal damage in animal models. Benefits attributed to these fungi include anti-fatigue, anti-aging, and anti-cancer properties, suggesting improvements in energy, mood, and heart health. Importantly, Cordyceps might aid in alleviating depression and anxiety by safeguarding brain health and influencing dopamine levels, a vital neurotransmitter. Research has also shown that compounds such as adenosine, cordycepin, and polysaccharides in Cordyceps may boost dopamine production and impact oxygen uptake in the brain, essential for mental clarity and cognitive performance.

Furthermore, findings suggest that Cordyceps polypeptide protects against oxidative damage in a scopolamine-induced mouse model of cognitive impairment, supporting its role in upholding neuronal health and overall brain function. With a growing body of evidence supporting its efficacy, Cordyceps emerges as a promising candidate for enhancing cognition and brain health, linking its biological actions to improved cognitive outcomes across various domains.

Could Cordyceps Evolve To Infect Humans?

In "The Last of Us," a mutated version of the Cordyceps fungus infects humans, but experts argue this scenario is highly implausible. According to Roberts, numerous fungal species exist in nature that do not infect humans, and Cordyceps is among them. This fungus is specialized for certain arthropods, like ants and spiders, with no capacity to evolve into a human pathogen. While the narrative in the show depicts rapid human infection via contaminated food, real-world foodborne illnesses like norovirus or Salmonella are not comparable to this fictional outbreak.

The Cordyceps fungus is indeed real and inflicts misery on insects such as ants by controlling their behavior. An infected ant might leave its colony to find a humid environment that facilitates the fungus's reproduction, which leads to grotesque scenarios where the fungus consumes the host. However, people need not worry about a mind-altering Cordyceps pandemic. Research indicates that human body temperatures are lethal to Cordyceps spores, preventing any potential infection.

While it is theoretically possible that fungi could evolve with changing climates, experts remain skeptical about the likelihood of Cordyceps adapting to infect humans. Such species tend to specialize over millions of years on specific insect hosts. Therefore, a jump from insects to humans is considered highly unlikely. In real life, Cordyceps fungi do not create zombie-like transformations; instead, they have beneficial usages in traditional and modern medicine. Though they might one day adapt to new environments, current knowledge suggests that Cordyceps will not become a threat to humans.

In summary, while "The Last of Us" presents an engaging horror narrative, the scientific community dismisses the feasibility of a Cordyceps infection in humans, reinforcing that it is primarily a parasite of insects and unlikely to change its ways.

Could Cordyceps Eventually Infect Humans?

In "The Last of Us," the premise involves a mutated variant of the Cordyceps fungus that begins infecting humans. However, this scenario is deemed highly improbable by experts like Roberts, citing that Cordyceps primarily infects insects and arthropods, with no evidence suggesting it poses a significant threat to human health. While Cordyceps is sometimes used as a health supplement, its benefits lack scientific validation. The portrayal of Cordyceps infecting humans is a fictional construct often seen in various media.

In reality, although infections can occur through contaminated food sources, the Cordyceps fungus specifically targets insects and is not adapted for human hosts. The World Health Organization has acknowledged a growing fungal threat to human health, but there is no current evidence that Cordyceps can infect humans. Instead, it thrives in cooler environments suitable for its biological lifecycle, specifically at temperatures that human bodies do not support. Additionally, other fungi may produce compounds that can impact human behavior, but Cordyceps itself does not function in this capacity.

While there are numerous infectious diseases caused by various organisms such as viruses and bacteria, Cordyceps is not among them regarding human infection. The idea of humans becoming zombies due to this fungus, as illustrated in fiction, is purely imaginative since Cordyceps has evolved over millions of years to target specific insect hosts. Experts agree that the chances of Cordyceps adapting to infect humans are minimal, given our body’s temperature would kill its spores. Thus, despite the chilling narrative in "The Last of Us", Cordyceps remains a fungus that primarily affects insects, not humans, and any fears surrounding it infecting people are unfounded.

Why Do Dead Spiders Turn White?

The cover photo depicts a Daddy long legs spider that has succumbed to a cordyceps fungus, with white, fur-like fruiting bodies enveloping its lifeless form. Spiders often turn white upon death for several reasons, including dehydration or infection by parasitic fungi. The whitish structures observed are actually the fruiting bodies and hyphae of the fungus. Decomposition in soft-bodied insects like spiders occurs rapidly when they are exposed to the environment.

Signs that a spider may be dying include curling its legs tightly beneath itself; they lack the muscular control to extend their legs, relying instead on blood pressure to manage leg position. Interestingly, some spiders can change color due to pigmentation variations, influenced by genetic mutations or environmental factors, which can affect their camouflage. The query of why spiders curl up when dying often goes unanswered; however, the phenomenon occurs due to the cessation of blood flow.

Additionally, discarded spider exoskeletons can appear white due to mold or fungus accumulation, revealing the complex interactions between spiders and their environments. Ultimately, the transformation to a white appearance involves factors such as loss of pigmentation and external fungal infections that are prominent in many cases.

Can Cordyceps Infect Dogs?

Dogs can safely consume Cordyceps mushrooms, typically available as powdered supplements, valued for their immune system support and potential anti-cancer properties, including encouraging the natural cell death in cancer cells. Originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cordyceps are renowned for their ability to boost immunity and increase stamina. Incorporating Cordyceps into a dog’s diet involves selecting appropriate supplement products and monitoring for any adverse reactions.

While fictional representations such as "The Last of Us" portray mutated Cordyceps spreading rapidly among humans and animals via infected food supplies, in reality, Cordyceps primarily infect insects and do not pose a threat to dogs or other mammals. Dogs possess highly acidic stomachs that typically prevent infections from pathogens theoretically transmitted through food, such as norovirus or Salmonella bacteria. Consequently, healthy dogs are unlikely to be infected by natural Cordyceps, and there have been no reports of infected dogs displaying symptoms similar to those in fictional accounts.

In contrast to the show where dogs become feral and aggressive due to infection, in real life, dogs either cannot be infected or do not show symptoms if they are. However, some dogs may experience allergic reactions to Cordyceps, so those with known mold, yeast, or fungi allergies should avoid supplementation. Research suggests that Cordyceps can benefit a dog’s health by supporting adrenal gland function, aiding in more effective stress management, promoting healthy respiration, and alleviating allergies and chronic infections. Additionally, Cordyceps supplementation may help in treating various ailments such as fatigue, general sickness, kidney disease, and others. The adaptogenic properties of Cordyceps help a dog’s adrenal glands respond more effectively to stress. It is crucial to choose high-quality supplements from reputable sources, as not all edible mushrooms are safe for canine consumption and some may contain harmful compounds. Furthermore, different Cordyceps species are host-specific; those that infect humans do not pose a threat to dogs. Domestic and wild dogs, cats, bears, sheep, and cattle are generally safe, as humans are not considered normal hosts although transmission can occasionally occur. Studies have indicated that compounds like cordycepin in Cordyceps show no drug-related toxicities in dogs, reinforcing their safety profile. Moreover, Cordyceps mushrooms possess antifungal and antibacterial properties, contributing further to their health benefits for dogs. While theories exist that certain species have co-evolved with hosts like monkeys, making infections possible, in practice, only insect hosts are affected, making Cordyceps harmless to dogs. Overall, Cordyceps can be a beneficial addition to a dog’s diet when used appropriately, offering various health advantages while being generally safe for most dogs, provided they do not have specific allergies and the supplements are properly sourced.

What Happens If You Eat Too Much Cordyceps?

Cordyceps, a genus of fungi, is generally considered safe for most individuals when consumed orally in doses of 3-6 grams daily for up to one year. While it may provide benefits such as potential energy boosts and protective effects against health issues (like arthritis and diabetes), it can also lead to mild side effects, including diarrhea, constipation, and stomach discomfort. Certain populations, including those with cancer, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should avoid cordyceps due to possible immune system activation.

Athletes often use cordyceps as a natural energy enhancer. However, excessive intake can result in adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, digestive issues, and, in rare cases, allergic reactions. High consumption may lead to gastrointestinal distress, characterized by stomach upset or diarrhea.

Although cordyceps is not reported to be toxic when taken appropriately, caution is advised, particularly for individuals scheduled for surgery, due to its potential blood-thinning properties, which may increase bleeding risk. Nutritional practices involving cordyceps include incorporating its fruiting body in teas or cooked dishes, potentially enhancing flavor and digestion.

Individuals considering cordyceps supplements should consult healthcare professionals, particularly if they have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. Overall, while cordyceps may offer various health benefits, awareness of potential side effects and contraindications is essential for safe consumption.

Can Cordyceps Infect Bees?

Cordyceps offers a targeted approach to pest control by effectively killing grasshoppers while sparing honeybees, presenting a safer alternative to broad-spectrum chemicals. In Thailand's natural forests, Cordyceps sphecocephala and a Hymenostilbe species were identified infecting Hymenoptera, which includes wasps and bees. These fungi were isolated from various fungal structures such as hyphal bodies, ascus part-spores, and conidia. Among the 52 Cordyceps species known to parasitize Hymenoptera, the majority specifically target these insects.

Additionally, Cordyceps (Beauveria) bassiana is utilized to control pests like aphids and whiteflies and has been explored for mosquito control, though its effectiveness in this area remains uncertain.

Researchers have discovered that Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, a variant of Cordyceps, can infect tropical ants by penetrating their exoskeletons and manipulating their behavior. This fascinating interaction inspired the creator of the TV show "The Last of Us," where a mutated Cordyceps fungus spreads rapidly among humans through contaminated food. However, in reality, Cordyceps cannot infect humans as the fungus cannot survive within the human body. While infections can occur through contaminated food with pathogens like norovirus or Salmonella, Cordyceps remains insect-specific.

Infected insects, such as flies, display fruiting bodies of Cordyceps, illustrating the parasite's lifecycle. The fungus is prevalent in regions like central Florida, where Ophiocordyceps has been found in ants. Hymenoptera, divided into the suborders Apocrita and Symphyta, are both susceptible to Cordyceps parasitism. Studies from 1995 to 2022 highlight the extensive research on Cordyceps' role in controlling insect populations and its potential applications in agriculture.

Furthermore, methods for cultivating Cordyceps militaris using bee pupae have been developed, emphasizing its agricultural significance. Despite its portrayal in media, the zombie-ant fungus does not pose a threat to humans.

What All Does Cordyceps Infect?

Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, commonly called cordyceps or zombie-ant fungus, primarily infects insects, notably ants and spiders. This parasitic fungus drains its host of nutrients and eventually fills its body with spores for reproduction. There are over 750 species of cordyceps globally, each targeting different insects depending on the species. In the fictional universe of "The Last of Us," infected food supplies lead to a rapid spread of a mutated Cordyceps to humans, portraying it as a lethal threat that culminates in a post-apocalyptic scenario.

While infections through food are realistic—e. g., norovirus or Salmonella—there's no evidence that cordyceps can infect humans. Scientific research highlights that some cordyceps species can create "zombie" states in insects, controlling their behavior before killing them.

Approximately 35 known Ophiocordyceps species turn various insects into zombies, including caterpillars and grasshoppers, with researchers identifying over 200 species infecting a range of hosts from 10 insect orders. For instance, Ophiocordyceps sinensis, or the "caterpillar fungus," targets ghost moth larvae. Although these fungi primarily affect insects, they are generally safe for human consumption and have been used as health supplements.

Most species of cordyceps only target specific insects, underscoring their specialized parasitic nature. The fascination with cordyceps arises from their unique capability to manipulate their hosts, which has inspired various forms of media, though their effects are confined to the insect realm.