Fungus Manipulating Spiders Found in Irish Caves

Scientists have identified a new species of fungus, Gibellula attenboroughii, which infects orb-weaving cave spiders, such as Metellina merianae, and manipulates their behavior to maximize spore dispersal. Named after Sir David Attenborough, the fungus was discovered by a BBC documentary crew filming in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. It compels spiders to leave their reclusive habitats and move to exposed areas like cave ceilings, similar to how Ophiocordyceps fungi infect ants. The fungus's influence on spider behavior is hypothesized to involve neurotransmitters such as dopamine, altering the host's nervous system. This discovery adds to the understanding of fungi that can manipulate animal behavior for reproductive benefits, raising questions about the broader implications for science. The findings were published in the journal Fungal Systematics and Evolution and documented in the BBC series Winterwatch.