Scientists have discovered a new, never-before-seen fungus that infects cave spiders, turning them into mind-controlled “zombies”. The fluffy white fungus, named Gibellula attenboroughii, was found on the grounds of a destroyed Irish castle and is believed to use chemical signals to control its spider hosts.
The fungus works by releasing its spores from infected spider corpses, which are then dispersed by air currents. Once inside, the fungus kills its host and absorbs all nutrients before producing antibiotics and other substances that could lead to new medicines.
Researchers believe G. attenboroughii infects orb-weaving cave spiders in Ireland and possibly in Wales, with the potential for many more species yet to be discovered. The discovery highlights a hidden diversity of parasitic fungi in the British Isles and raises hopes for new medicines from this “medicinal treasure chest”.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/animals/spiders/zombie-spiders-infected-by-never-before-seen-fungus-discovered-on-grounds-of-destroyed-irish-castle