Zombie spiders are invading homes all over the world

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleSpiders infected with a fungus that turns them into “zombies” are now being discovered worldwide, with sightings reported in North America, Europe, and New Zealand. The fungus, named Gibellula attenboroughii after David Attenborough, was initially found four years ago in an abandoned gunpowder store in Northern Ireland. This fungus manipulates the spiders' behavior, causing them to act strangely, such as moving into open areas to die, which aids the spread of its spores. Homeowners globally are reporting unsettling encounters with these “zombie” arachnids, finding them in sheds, cellars, and under decks. While reminiscent of fictional fungi that infect humans, this spider fungus cannot infect people, though research into its mechanisms could offer insights into human brain health and degenerative diseases. In fullFungus-encrusted zombie spiders are now being found in America and freaking out homeownersThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Raccontata daindependent.co.uk