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Newly Discovered Fungus Manipulates Spiders into 'Zombie-Like' Behavior

A new fungus named Gibellula Attenboroughii has been discovered in Irish caves, causing common cave spiders to become 'zombies' after infection, according to speleologist Tim Fogg.
The fungus manipulates spider behavior using chemicals, forcing them out of crevices to spread spores, as explained by Tim Fogg.
Dr. Harry Evans and a team confirmed the fungus as a novel species, named after Sir David Attenborough, and published their findings in Fungal Systematics and Evolution.
Further research is needed on the fungus's impact on spider populations and its potential medical applications, as stated by Tim Fogg.

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BGR

Mind-altering parasite takes control of host spiders before killing them

Deep in the caves of Ireland, scientists have discovered a mind-altering parasite that takes control of spiders, forcing them to abandon their webs before ultimately meeting a gruesome end. This newly identified species, named Gibellula attenboroughii after the legendary natural historian Sir David Attenborough, is part of a rare group of fungi that manipulate their hosts' behavior in eerily precise ways. The mind-altering parasitic fungus was f…

17 days ago

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n-tv.de

Like from a horror movie: Mushroom turns spiders into “zombies”

In Ireland, documentary filmmakers make an amazing discovery: a dead spider whose body is covered with white fungal spores. Investigations have shown that this is not only a new type of mushroom, but also a very special type of mushroom. This turns their victims into “zombies.”

17 days ago

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IFLScience

Shy Cave Spiders Turned Into "Zombies" By Behavior-Changing Fungus

The new fungus species was first seen on a television program.

17 days ago

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Irish Mirror

'Zombie spiders' infected with fungus discovered dwelling in Irish caves

The spiders, found within the White Father Caves under Cavan and Fermanagh, are infected with a fungus that effectively turns them into 'zombies'

Fungus-infected 'zombie spiders' discovered in Irish caves

The newly discovered fungal species responsible for their zombification has been named Gibellula attenboroughii, in honour of renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough

18 days ago·London, United Kingdom

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