Zombie Fungus Infects Tarantula: Viral Video Leaves Viewers Terrified
A chilling video of a tarantula infected by a zombie fungus has gone viral, sending shivers down the spines of viewers worldwide. Wildlife researcher Chris Ketola shared the unsettling footage on Instagram, sparking widespread fear and fascination.
What is Zombie Fungus?
Zombie fungus, scientifically known as Cordyceps, is a type of fungus that primarily targets insects like ants and spiders. The fungus invades its host, taking over its mind and body. It then consumes the host from the inside out, eventually sprouting from the body to release spores and reproduce.
This terrifying process, which has gained fame through the popular video game and TV series The Last of Us, is now making headlines in real life. However, while the fictional version infects humans, the real-life zombie fungus is limited to invertebrates.
Chris Ketola’s Shocking Discovery
Chris Ketola, who works as the Head Field Research Coordinator for Fauna Forever, posted the video on Instagram. In his caption, he explained, “Cordyceps is a genus of fungi that primarily attacks invertebrates, slowly eating their body while taking over their nervous system. 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!”
The video quickly gained traction, racking up over 21 million views and counting. The sight of the infected tarantula has left many viewers horrified, with some even calling for the creature to be “burned with fire.”
Social Media Reactions
The video has sparked a wave of reactions on Instagram. One user commented, “Please, it’s 2024. Step away from the zombie spores.” Another added, “Please back away from the Cordyceps. This timeline is already too much for me.”
Others expressed their fear more directly. “So… this is how it starts,” one user wrote, while another commented, “Imagine the trauma of this happening to you, and then a camera crew pops out of nowhere and films you while you’re just frozen like that.” The most common sentiment? “Burn it with fire.”
Who is Chris Ketola?
Chris Ketola is a wildlife researcher and conservationist working with Fauna Forever, a non-profit organization focused on monitoring and protecting wildlife in the Amazon rainforest. Ketola’s Instagram is a treasure trove of fascinating—and sometimes frightening—videos that educate viewers about the natural world.
Conclusion
This video of a tarantula infected by zombie fungus has gripped the internet, reminding us that nature can be both beautiful and terrifying. While the fungus isn’t a threat to humans, the video has certainly left many people on edge.
