Scientists discover parasitic fungus which preys on spiders in Brazil

Scientists discover parasitic fungus which preys on spiders in Brazil

Scientists have recently claimed to have discovered a new parasitic fungus which infects and kills trapdoor spiders in the Atlantic rainforest in Brazil. The rare fungus is purple and is part of the group that infects invertebrates and then takes over the host. In a close-up image, the fungus is seen wrapped around a trapdoor spider's body, poking out of the burrow from which the insects are grabbed by the arachnid.

Parasitic fungus that infects and kills spiders discovered in Brazil - Democratic Underground

'The Last of Us' parasitic fungus that attacks and kills cells found in spiders

A new type of cordyceps has been discovered in Brazil that has the ability to attach itself to hosts and kill them, slowly wrapping itself around the victim as it spreads and grows

Parasitic fungus that kills spiders discovered in Brazil

Parasitic fungus that infects and kills spiders discovered in Brazil

Exclusive: rare purple organism preys on trapdoor spider in behaviour reminiscent of its ‘zombie’ relatives that feature in apocalyptic TV show The Last of Us