Fungi Connect Us All

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The narrative connecting fungi and the phenomenon of Cordyceps highlights a fascinating interplay between storytelling in media and real-life mycology. While the representation of zombie-like creatures in 'The Last of Us' captivates, it diverges from the authentic behaviors of Cordyceps. The concept of mycorrhizal networks reveals how fungi can connect trees to share nutrients and communicate, illustrating a significant ecological relationship that parallels the fictional depiction of fungal connections. Additionally, consulting experts like David Hughes can deepen understanding of fungi's complexities and trivia, emphasizing the importance of engaging with scientific insights during discussions.

What’s on your mind? ZOMBIES. The planet is full of mind-controlling foes, and “Plight of the Living Dead” author Matt Simon researched deep and traveled the world to document tales of fungus-controlled zombie ants, bellies and brains full of worms, wasp bunkers, decapitated ants, brutal stings, hapless cockroaches, the attraction of light, moonlit skinny dipping, and the philosophy of where I stop and you begin. The two of us also discuss the Last of Us, of course.

Visit Matt Simon’s website and follow him on Twitter

Shop Matt Simon’s books including Plight of the Living Dead: What Real-Life Zombies Reveal about Our World – And Ourselves

A donation went to the World Wildlife Fund