Viral Video: Real-Life 'Zombie Fungus' Captures Attention with Rare Tarantula Infection

Have you seen the movie *The Last of Us* and how one fungus infects all the humans and turns the world into a zombie apocalypse? While that depiction is purely fictional, a real-life fungus known as Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, or the "zombie fungus," does exist and has recently captured public attention in a new video showing its effects on a tarantula.

Chris Ketola shared a gripping video on Instagram, highlighting the rare infection of a tarantula by this notorious fungus. “Cordyceps is a genus of fungi that primarily attacks invertebrates, slowly eating their body while taking over their nervous system,” Ketola explained. “The so-called ‘zombie fungus’ has risen to fame recently due to the popular video game and TV show *The Last of Us*. This particular species of Cordyceps infects tarantulas and is quite rare; this is only the third time I’ve seen a tarantula infected by Cordyceps!”

Check Out the Viral Video:

In the video, the tarantula is seen being overtaken by the fungus, with the infection gradually consuming its body and sprouting spores from within. The process is a chilling reminder of the real-world counterparts to the apocalyptic scenarios depicted in fiction.

But What is Zombie Fungus?

Dailymail described the phenomenon, writing, “The zombie fungus, formally known as Cordyceps, seizes control of the mind and motor functions of its host before eating away at its body and sprouting from within.”

According to NPR, this particular fungus drains its host of nutrients and fills the host’s body with spores, facilitating its reproduction. While the Cordyceps fungus has evolved to target insects rather than humans, its impact on its tiny hosts is both fascinating and eerie.

This rare footage has reignited interest in the zombie fungus, drawing parallels to its fictional portrayal and underscoring the extraordinary, if somewhat unsettling, capabilities of nature. 

Users Reaction to the Post:

One of the users said, “Yeah OK, PATIENT 0 PLEASE STEP AWAY FROM THE CORDYCEPS.”

Another one humorously said, “Buddy trying to be the First Of Us.”

“This would’ve been better if it ended by you looking to the side of the shot yelling ‘OH MY GOD WHAT IS THA-‘ then it cuts,” said a third user.