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

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…

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.”

Scientists Photograph 'Zombie' Spiders Infected With Fungi

Scientists have discovered and photographed cave-dwelling "zombie" spiders that have been infected by parasitic fungi.

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

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

Scientists Discover a Fungus Turning Spiders Into Zombies

A new species of fungus straight out of a nightmare has been found lurking on the ceiling of an abandoned gunpowder storeroom in Northern Ireland, enmeshed in the body of an unlucky spider host.

'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'