In a nature preserve in Northern Ireland, researchers discovered a new species of fungus that infects and controls spiders. The finding, detailed in a recent scientific paper, describes how the fungus transforms its host, turning it into a sort of ‘zombie’ to facilitate spore dispersal. This phenomenon is reminiscent of the infamous zombie ant fungus, inspiring popular culture. The discovery came to light during a BBC filming, where volunteers found an infected spider, leading researchers to explore its implications further and connect it to similar observations in caves.
The discovery of a new fungus species reveals a complex evolutionary strategy that transforms infected spiders into zombie-like hosts, showcasing nature's fascinating adaptations.
Researchers found a newly identified fungus that hijacks spiders, turning them into zombie hosts to spread its spores, similar to the well-known zombie ant fungus.
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