Fungus-infected 'zombie spiders' discovered in Irish caves Cave explorers have discovered a terrifying breed of so-called ‘zombie’ spiders, found feasting on fungus in caves along the Irish coastline.
The researchers found the Gibellula attenboroughii spiders living in cave systems across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
As controller of BBC Two between 1965 and 1969, Attenborough played a pivotal role in developing the Natural History Unit, which later produced the nature series where the discovery first emerged.
The team observed the spiders clinging to cave walls and ceilings after leaving their webs and lairs upon becoming infected with the fungus.
The newly discovered fungal species responsible for their zombification has been named Gibellula attenboroughii, in honour of renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough.
