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New Parasitic Fungus Discovered in Western Sweden, Controls Spiders

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Key Points
  • A new parasitic fungus called Gibellula attenboroughii was discovered in a cave in Western Sweden.
  • The fungus infects and controls spiders, manipulating their behavior.
  • The discovery was reported by entomologist Anders Lindström of the State Veterinary Medical Institute to Swedish Radio.

A newly discovered parasitic fungus named 'Gibellula attenboroughii' has been found in a cave in Western Sweden. The fungus, named after TV personality David Attenborough, infects and controls spiders, according to entomologist Anders Lindström of the State Veterinary Medical Institute, who reported the find to Swedish Radio. Researchers describe observing the phenomenon with a mix of horror and fascination as the fungus manipulates its host animals.

The fungus, named after TV personality David Attenborough, infects and controls spiders

Anders Lindström, entomologist of the State Veterinary Medical Institute

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