Idea for the Cordyceps Fungus
Moths don't last long because they lose the mouth after emerging from the cocoon. I was thinking what if cordyceps infected a moth but instead of a parasitic relationship it became a symbiotic one. The fungus wound sprout where the mouth would be, the moth would carry them to food then the fungus would digest said food for them both.
The ability to eat would extend the moth's lifespan, increasing the number of offspring they can have.
The Cordyceps would then be able to spread to more hosts. After a few generations the moths would potentially get bigger as they have less limits to grow. The fact that fungi flesh is surprisingly light helps too. Though the moth will begin to evolve to better suit the fungus. Becoming more attracted to decay then light, bigger wings to go longer distances, and drawn to moist places.
Posted May 2, 2026, 1:55 PM UTC