Inside Pandora's box: Development of the lethal myrmecopathogenic fungus Pandora formicae within its ant host

Parasites modify their host's appearance, behaviour and physiology to a certain extent. Many of these modifications are seen as purposefully manipulative, serving the parasite's interest. Endgames particularly intriguing, where development requires death. ‘Summit’ or ‘treetop’ disease is one such spectacular examples parasite-induced death: host dies attached an elevated part vegetation. organisms induce summit including Ophiocordyceps , Entomophthora Pandora species. We analyzed formicae inside its ant body after Our findings suggest that fungus consumes muscles central nervous system quite fast, similarly related muscae . Unlike in no conidial anastomosis tubes were observed. Differences similarities between three fungi discussed with regard extent parasitic manipulation since 's manipulative traits seem less pronounced than • The myrmecoparasitic show many similarities. P. corpses was studied histological sections. rapidly invades body, brain included. Parasitic obvious Pandora.