Denmark scientists find fungi species that turn flies into 'zombies'

Two new fungi species, 'Strongwellsea tigrinae' and 'Strongwellsea acerosa' that infect flies, have been discovered in Denmark.

The new fungi species are host-specific and rely on two species of Danish fly – 'Coenosia tigrina' and 'Coenosia testacea,' according to researchers at the University of Copenhagen.

While most fungi spore once the host is dead, the host continues to live for days, socialising with other flies while the fungus consumes its genitals, fat reserves, reproductive organs and finally its muscle, all the while shooting out thousands of spores on to other individuals. After a few days, the fly lies on its back, spasms for a few hours and then dies.

Scientists think the fungi could be producing substances that stay fresh and live for days after infection – only collapsing once there is nothing left in their abdomens but the fungus. This is referred to as 'zombies'.

The parasites probably only infect a small percentage of individuals – between 3 and 5% in a healthy fly population.