What are zombie ants?

What are zombie ants? Are they dangerous?

Zombie ants are regular ants that become infected by a parasitic fungus, most commonly from the genus Ophiocordyceps. This fungus, sometimes called the zombie ant mushroom, takes control of the ant’s body and nervous system, altering its behavior. 

Once the fungus has taken hold, it usually results in the ant leaving its colony and climbing plants, where it clamps onto a stem or leaf before dying as the fungus takes over its body. From there, the fungus continues to grow and eventually produces spores that can infect more ants and even destroy whole colonies.

This type of fungus is not dangerous to humans, and it’s unlikely that a zombie ant would bite you (if it did, it would only likely result in a mild sting). So whilst they may sound like something from a horror movie, they are nothing to worry about.

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If ants are becoming a problem inside or around your home, DIY methods rarely get to the root of the issue. Our technicians can identify the type of ants present, explain what’s attracting them, and set up a tailored ant control plan to help protect your property.