Scientists have recently identified a new fungus species, Gibellula attenboroughii, that infects cave spiders in Ireland, compelling them to abandon their webs and perish in open areas. Discovered in 2021 during filming of BBC's Winterwatch, the fungus influences spider behavior by triggering dopamine production.
This finding is significant as it points to a concealed variety of parasitic fungi in the British Isles, indicating prevalent spider epidemics. The implications extend to potential repercussions on spider populations and broader ecosystem effects across the region.