Cordyceps Fungi and Ants

The video explores the prevalence of insects in jungles, focusing on ants and their susceptibility to the parasitic cordyceps fungus. This fungus infiltrates ants' bodies and minds, leading to disorientation and death. The cordyceps fungus is highly specialized, targeting specific species and affecting jungle biodiversity by preventing any one species from dominating. Despite its deadly nature, the fungus plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

What percentage of insects are found in jungles?

• 50%

• 60%

• 80%

• 70%

How many ants can be found in a single hectare in the jungle?

• 1 million

• 5 million

• 8 million

• 10 million

What is the name of the parasitic fungus that affects ants?

• Aspergillus

• Penicillium

• Rhizopus

• Cordyceps

What happens to ants infected by the Cordyceps fungus?

• They become faster

• They become immune to other diseases

• They become disoriented

• They become stronger

What do ant colonies do with infected ants?

• They treat them

• They ignore them

• They isolate them

• They remove them from the colony

How long does it take for the Cordyceps fungus to grow?

• Two weeks

• One week

• Four weeks

• Three weeks

What is the potential impact of the Cordyceps fungus on ant colonies?

• It makes them more aggressive

• It has no effect

• It strengthens the colony

• It can wipe out entire colonies

How many types of Cordyceps fungi are there?

• Hundreds

• Thousands

• Tens

• Millions

What positive effect do Cordyceps fungi have on jungle ecosystems?

• They increase the number of ants

• They eliminate all insects

• They promote diversity

• They reduce plant growth