In the Amazonian forest, this Camponotus femoratus ant has been killed and its tissues replaced by an aggressive Ophiocordyceps fungus. Jatun Sacha reserve, Napo, Ecuador

Ophiocordyceps fungus growing from the carcass of a carpenter ant. Note how the ant's mandibles have gripped the leaf edge, anchoring it in place. This behavior is induced when the fungus takes partial control over the ant's brain. Jatun Sacha reserve, Napo, Ecuador

Ophiocordyceps fungus growing from the carcass of a carpenter ant. Note how the ant's mandibles have gripped the leaf edge, anchoring it in place. This behavior is induced when the fungus takes partial control over the ant's brain. Jatun Sacha reserve, Napo, Ecuador