Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

New Fungus Turns Cave Spiders Into Zombie Hosts

2/14/2025

38 9

Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking discovery in Europe reveals a new fungus, Gibellula attenboroughii, that turns cave spiders into unwitting hosts, luring them into vulnerable spots before their demise to release spores. This eerie behavior mirrors that of the infamous zombie ant fungus. Researchers are eager to explore its ecological role and possible medical uses, as it poses no danger to humans.

1 of 1

Story summary

A groundbreaking discovery in Europe reveals a new fungus, Gibellula attenboroughii, that turns cave spiders into unwitting hosts, luring them into vulnerable spots before their demise to release spores. This eerie behavior mirrors that of the infamous zombie ant fungus. Researchers are eager to explore its ecological role and possible medical uses, as it poses no danger to humans.