WebJul 31, 2024 · Cicadas are succumbing to a parasitic infection that basically turns them into zombies. You read that right. The fungus scientifically known as Massospora has been … WebMay 31, 2024 · Infected cicadas are flight capable and their peregrinations carry the fungus to new habitats as cicadas fly about. In low density populations of cicadas, mortality rates caused by Massospora range < 5% to ~ 25%. A second, more sinister wave of infection follows the first.

Return of the zombie cicadas: Manipulative qualities of fungal-infected …

WebAug 5, 2024 · These cicadas, which are infected with a parasitic, psychedelic fungus called Massospora, have rotting bodies and engage in weird “hypersexual” practices, according … WebFeb 24, 2024 · Recently, Kasson and his colleagues have been studying a fungus called Massospara that is infecting the cicadas after they emerge from the ground. Over the next couple of weeks, the fungus essentially eats away the entire back half of the cicada and grows in its place. regency cove

‘Zombie cicadas’ under influence of mind-controlling fungus

WebFeb 26, 2024 · Roughly 2 to 5 percent of cicadas in the US are infected this way called Stage I infection, but that's not the fungus's only means of getting around. The fungus also settles in the cicadas' abdomens, … WebMay 27, 2024 · Kasson studies one exceptionally peculiar species called Massospora cicadina. It only infects so-called periodical cicadas such as Brood X—those that emerge every 13 or 17 years. M. cicadina ’s... WebAug 3, 2024 · Once the interested cicada flocks to the infected cicada to mate, the infected cicada will attempt to transfer the fungus over to its peer. Then, the Massosopora will begin to eat away at the ... regency court monrovia ca