Are you ready to meet the world’s most valuable parasite? This parasite builds a nest inside the larval ghost moths it infects while the caterpillars are underground during the summer months. The parasite that takes over the body slowly consumes its host over months and sends its dying slave to the surface, forming a sporocarp that emerges from its head. This mushroom, which is collected later, is often called the Himalayan Caterpillar Mushroom or the Zombie Caterpillar Mushroom.
This deadly duo is known as “yartsa gunbu” in Tibet or “Dōng Chóng Xià Cǎo” in China, meaning “winter worm, summer grass” in their language. The reason for these names is that to the people above the ground, the fungus resembles earth-colored stems protruding from the ground. The Himalayan caterpillar mushroom has become one of the most valuable biological products in the world.
In China, they are also referred to as “soft gold”, with prices ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 per kilogram, up to $140,000 for a particularly large sample. As an Ophiocordyceps, it is among the brain-controlling parasitic fungi known to turn ants and spiders into zombies and have become the stars of The Last Of Us.
However, according to a 2013 article, Ophiocordyceps sinensis is a bit more special than the others as it is estimated to contain around 30 bioactivities. Recently, the bioactivities of O. sinensis have been identified and include antiarteriosclerosis, antidepression and antiosteoporosis activities, photoprotection, prevention and treatment of intestinal injury, promotion of endurance capacity, sexual potency (also known as Himalayan Viagra), and learning-memory enhancement.
This parasite has been used as an ingredient in traditional medicine for over 700 years, and the O. sinensis market has held a strong position throughout history. Unfortunately, in recent years the fungus itself has now been put at risk due to overconsumption, habitat degradation and climate change.
Studies have determined that the Himalayan caterpillar fungus is more prolific in colder conditions and prefers habitats with permafrost (permafrost) for at least part of the year. While the parasitic fungi are largely responsible for putting their population at risk, the research concluded that the warming climate is equally threatening the survival of this species.
The once abundant fungus has dwindled in recent years, which could be bad news for humans and wider wildlife. Regarding California’s impending mushroom boom, Stu Pickell, president of the Los Angeles Mycological Society, said that fungi are an important part of the ecosystem, and declining numbers mean that many people who rely on caterpillar mushroom harvesting for their income may find it difficult to make a living.
The creatures of The Last Of Us may seem terrifying, but sometimes even the mushrooms that take over the bodies need help…
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