Cicadas infected by a mysterious fungus

Reports of a mysterious fungus infecting cicadas causing abnormal sexual behaviors, referred to as 'zombies', but experts clarify that there is nothing to worry about as the fungus is harmless to humans and only affects cicadas.

Cicadas infected by 'zombie' fungus

Cicadas from brood XIX are being infected by a fungus that turns them into 'sex-crazed zombies' by tearing off their genitals but driving them to keep mating. The fungus replaces the cicada's backend with a 'chalky white gum drop' and keeps them alive to spread spores. Infected cicadas become hypersexual and even pretend to be females to mate with other males. The fungus also produces a stimulant that possibly makes the cicadas 'high out of their minds.' The infection doesn't pose a risk to humans.

Threatening Fungus on Periodical Cicadas

A strange fungus is threatening certain broods of periodical cicadas, discussed by mycologist Matt Kasson in an NPR article.

Camembert cheese production and the impact of fungus losing ability to reproduce

Camembert cheese production may be affected in the future due to fungus losing ability to reproduce.