
Arthrophaga myriapodina
Fungus which has parasitized a millipede found on a forested trail.
This species of pathogenic "zombie" fungus specializes on millipedes. Once the spores have found a way into the host's body, the fungus ultimately assumes control of the millipede entirely. The host behavior is hijacked in order to amplify spore dispersal; expended hosts are often found in elevated positions like tree branches or the higher positions. Zombie millipedes are often spotted following periods of heavy rain.

''Arthrophaga myriapodina'' is a fungus in the Entomophthorales that parasitizes the millipedes ''Apheloria virginiensis corrugata'', ''Boraria infesta'', and ''Nannaria'' sp. Infected millipedes typically climb to an elevated spot before death.

comments (5)