17. Ophiocordyceps
Our first of a few parasites on the list is called Ophiocordyceps. Technically, it is a parasitic fungus that typically latches on to different species of insects that are often found in the jungles of Africa. In ants, this stuff becomes absolutely incredible. It will sort of force the ant to climb up and attach itself to the underside of a leaf, usually about 25cm from the ground. The ant will then die and the Ophiocordyceps will begin to grow.

In a few days, the deadly spores will come about and can begin to infect humans that come in contact with it. If one does come in contact, it can actually infect people pretty easily. The Ophiocordyceps will then take over the brain of a person. It won’t randomly put them on autopilot but it can cause them to make insane decisions. This is the same parasitic fungus used to create the zombies in The Last of Us video game. Obviously, it is heightened for drama but does have potential.