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After an extensive hiatus of two years, the second season of HBO’s The Last of Us is set to premiere. The new season picks up five years after Joel and Ellie’s perilous expedition across America, leading them to the fortified community of Jackson, Wyoming, a sanctuary amidst a devastating fungal pandemic and the ensuing violence.
For those disappointed by the limited depiction of Cordyceps-infected beings in the first season, co-creator Craig Mazin offered a reassuring message in a conversation with Empire Magazine, stating, “For the viewers eager to see more of the infected… Buckle up!”
Fans of the show’s primary antagonist, the Cordyceps fungus, will find much to celebrate. The inaugural season introduced two recognizable stages of infection: the clickers and bloaters. In the upcoming season, audiences can expect the addition of the “stalker” stage, alongside airborne spore dispersal—a thrilling evolution within this fictional fungal narrative. This particular stage is notably faster, engendering excitement among both fans and mycologists. Neil Druckmann, another co-creator, shared insights with Empire Magazine, explaining, “Now you get to see a different evolution of this infection. It retains certain brain functions, thus making them smarter.”
A citrus cicada infected with Ophiocordyceps sobolifera. CREDIT: Matt Kasson
Understanding Real-World Zombification
Exploring the intricate life cycles of parasitic fungi is fundamental for mycologists. While fictional narratives about zombification can be captivating, they frequently distort scientific realities to enhance drama. As Oliver Keyhani, an insect pathologist from the University of Illinois, remarks, “Behavioral manipulation rarely makes the host violent.”
Moreover, these fictional timelines are significantly accelerated for the sake of suspense and entertainment.
“In reality, zombification does not happen overnight,” adds science journalist Mindy Weisberger, the author of Rise of the Zombie Bugs. “It takes considerable time for the parasite to invade a host and exert control.”
Diverse stromata emerging from three Ophiocordyceps sobolifera-infected citrus cicada nymphs. CREDIT: Matt Kasson
The narrative is inspired by Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, which was previously known as Cordyceps unilateralis and is notorious for transforming ants into zombie-like entities. This fungus employs various behavior-altering tactics, such as staggering, hyperactivity, and a death grip—characteristics that are well-documented in scientific literature. In this gruesome process, infected ants succumb to death, never to revive, while serving as sustenance for the fungus as it completes its life cycle. Ultimately, the fungus emerges dramatically from the head of its ant host, releasing spores to infect new victims below, perpetuating the cycle.
Fungal Threats to Humans
While humans are not at immediate risk of losing their autonomy to fungi, certain fungal species pose significant threats to human health, though these dangers manifest differently.
Typically, the human immune system can combat most fungal infections. However, some fungi, such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida auris, which are prevalent in both natural environments and hospital settings, can be fatal. Cryptococcus neoformans, a yeast commonly found in bird droppings, is described by Keyhani as “one of the deadliest human fungal pathogens,” with mortality rates estimated between 40-60%.
[ Related: Nightmare-fuel fungi exist in real life. ]
Additionally, the emergence of fungal threats like Valley Fever, caused by the Coccidioides fungus, has been exacerbated by climate change, which is increasing dust and wind events that extend the organism’s reach. The overuse of fungicides in agriculture has also led to a rise in soil-dwelling fungal pathogens, fostering opportunistic infections in humans that are resistant to standard antifungal treatments.
Fungi and Human Culture
Zombifying fungi, akin to actors Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, have surged in popularity over the past decade, largely due to the cultural impact of The Last of Us. Despite their newfound fame, fungi remain a largely misunderstood aspect of the natural world. Mycologists have so far identified less than 10 percent of the vast and largely uncharted fungal ecosystem.
Even before the rise of video games, mythological beings like fairies, dryads, and elves have long been associated with fungi, serving as cultural touchstones that reflect our ancient fascinations and uncertainties regarding these organisms.
Dried ant specimens with Ophiocordyceps unilateralis infections. CREDIT: Matt Kasson
The fascination with fungi has permeated numerous aspects of society, influencing industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to sustainable materials. However, while fungi generally play beneficial roles in human endeavors, the insect-killing varieties have captured public imagination vividly.
This surge in interest has also raised concerns among scientists. The fictional portrayal of fungi in popular culture often deviates considerably from the complex and intriguing realities studied in laboratories. As Brian Lovett, an insect pathologist at Cornell University, mentions, “Academics tend to be cautious about minor inaccuracies, but these nuances often have little impact on the general public. In forms of art and creativity, flourishes are welcomed, and those studying these fungi recognize that they present complexities beyond our current understanding.”
Regardless, it is clear that the allure of zombie fungi and their disturbing relationships with their hosts have embedded themselves in human consciousness. Interest in these organisms continues to grow, much like the extensive networks of fungal mycelium. To witness the fascinating interplay of fungi and their hosts firsthand, consider exploring the common green spaces around your home, where you might uncover a struggling ant or fly infused with fungal life.
Source
www.popsci.com