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Scientists discover 'hyperparasite' in Malaysia Borneo jungle
Phys.org • • world
Key Points:
- Malaysian scientists from the University of Malaysia Sabah discovered a new parasitic fungus species, Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata, in Borneo's Danum Valley that preys on "zombie fungi" infecting ants.
- This fungus acts as a hyperparasite by parasitizing the Ophiocordyceps fungus, which manipulates and kills infected ants, feeding directly on the Ophiocordyceps tissue inside the host.
- Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata is notable for its unique horn-shaped structure, making it the first known member of its genus with this distinct feature.
- Scientists also identified a new spider-killing fungus during the same field trips, which infects and kills arachnids by spreading spores.
- These fungi have significant potential for developing new antimicrobial drugs and biocontrol agents for agricultural pest management, according to researchers.
