27K views · 434 reactions | When a cordyceps fungus attacks a host, the mycelium invades and eventually takes control of the body — replacing the host tissue. An elongated fruit body, called an ascocarp, will then spring forth and release the spores. Ensuring that the zombie bug apocalypse continues… #FungusFriday 履‍♂️  | Science Channel | Facebook

368K views · 10K reactions | Yes, the Cordyceps fungus is real—and it can destroy entire insect colonies. | National Geographic | Facebook

If you watch "The Last of Us” you have probably heard of the fungus Cordyceps. Cordyceps is a real parasitic fungus with hundreds of species worldwide, which takes up root in insects and other arthropods rather than soil or plants. When Cordyceps attacks a host, the mycelium (a root-like structure of a fungus) invades and eventually replaces the host tissue. Cordyceps ultimately kills its host and then grows a branch or tendril-like stalk from the body of the infected. The tendril then releases