The Last of Us in real life – a fungus turns spiders into zombies.

Sometimes life mirrors fantastic scenarios with astonishing similarities. In particular, the apocalyptic storyline of the series "The Last of Us" has found its parallel in the case of Irish spiders. Scientists have identified a new species of parasitic fungus named Gibellula attenboroughii, in honor of the renowned naturalist and broadcaster David Attenborough. This fungus preys on spiders, particularly cave-dwelling ones like Metellina merianae and Meta menardi, altering their behavior in a remarkable and even terrifying manner.

The fungi were discovered for the first time in 2021 during the filming of the series "Winter Watch" for BBC in Northern Ireland. The fungus compels spiders to leave their nests and venture into the open spaces of caves and beyond. Once there, the spiders remain motionless, as if "enchanted," until they perish, becoming a source for the spread of fungal spores.

Researchers explain this phenomenon through the production of specific substances by the fungus, particularly metabolites that affect the spiders' nervous system. Changes in dopamine levels induce a "zombie behavior" in the spiders, leading them to prioritize the reproduction of the fungus over their own survival.

This situation echoes a scenario from the popular series The Last of Us, where a similar fungus infects humans. It is known that fungi of the genus Gibellula and their relatives are already being studied as examples of parasitic manipulation over spiders. Other fungi affect insects, with Ophiocordyceps unilateralis (the infamous cordyceps) being responsible for infecting ants.

Previously, "The Telegraph" reported that deer and moose can exhibit zombified behavior. This is caused by a particular disease that results in a 100% mortality rate for the animal. The dangers lie not only in the present natural world but also in the viruses preserved in permafrost. Due to climate change, they may thaw out.