Researchers in Brazil have discovered a new species of 'zombie fungus' that infects the so-called 'builder spiders,' which create underground shelters in forest floors. This fungus was first observed in November 2022 by Brazilian mycologist Joao Paulo Machado de Araujo and his colleagues, who initially noticed a small mushroom cap protruding from a deceased spider's body. As they delicately excavated it, they found that the fungus had not only infected the spider but had also used its body to grow fruiting bodies, from which new spores are spread.

The term 'zombie fungus' gained popularity after the release of the series 'The Last of Us,' but in reality, these organisms function through a simpler biological process. They are parasitic entities that gradually take control of their host's body. According to the Brazilian researcher, when the fungal spores come in contact with a spider, they penetrate the exoskeleton and begin the infection process, ultimately leading to the host's demise as the fungus fully colonizes its body.

This discovery contributes to the ongoing study of parasitic fungi and their ecological roles, especially in tropical ecosystems like those found in Brazil. The implications of such findings extend beyond mere curiosity, as understanding these interactions can inform broader ecological studies and the health of forest ecosystems. Additionally, the continued interest in these organisms may inspire further research into their potential applications in biotechnology and medicine, given the unique parasitic relationships they exhibit.