in the Amazon Jungle.  The ant you’re looking at is a Carpenter ant, fairly common to most countries, in different species.  The interesting thing about these particular ants in these photographs is the tiny stalk protruding from the back of their heads – do you see it?”

“Yes.” Amanda replied, studying one of the photographs. 

“Well, I did some research, and you may not believe me, but you’re welcome to Google it if you ever see a computer again.  You’ll notice the body of the ant is fruiting, or drying out, well that is due to a specific fungus known as the Ophyocordiceps fungus.  This fungus attaches itself to the Amazonian Carpenter ant’s brain in the form of an inhaled spore, and basically takes control of it.  The fun...

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