In a surprising turn of events during a group tour in August 2025, scientist Alexander Bentley encountered a spider seemingly alive under a mass covered in what appeared to be a deadly parasitic fungus. Bentley, a herpetologist based in Ecuador, is well-acquainted with cordyceps, the parasitic fungi known for their role in the post-apocalyptic franchise “The Last of Us.”
Cordyceps, also referred to as “zombie fungus,” infects insects and arachnids, manipulating them to spread spores in a manner that resembles zombie behavior, as detailed by the National Library of Medicine. The spider Bentley encountered had developed tubercle-like structures on its abdomen, typically a sign of successful cordyceps infection.
Initially mistaken for a cordyceps-infected spider miraculously surviving, further investigation revealed it to be a novel arachnid species mimicking fungus like cordyceps, possibly for hunting or defense purposes. The discovery, detailed in Zootaxa, has sparked scientific interest, although some remain skeptical about the spider’s resemblance to the fungus.
Upon observing the spider’s peculiar characteristics, Bentley sought input from the iNaturalist platform, where users suggested it might be mimicking a type of parasitic fungi called gibellula, linked to the Cordycipitaceae family. However, subsequent analysis, conducted with the assistance of co-author David Ricardo Díaz-Guevara, confirmed the spider as a new species named Taczanowskia waska.
Experts, including mycologist Monika Fischer, emphasize the significance of citizen science platforms like iNaturalist in facilitating such discoveries. The spider’s fungus-like appearance has led to theories suggesting it could serve as an aggressive hunting tactic or a defensive mechanism against predators.
While debates continue regarding the spider’s mimicry, the finding remains unprecedented, drawing awe from researchers like Bentley and external experts such as Andrew Swafford. Swafford highlights the need for further research to understand the spider’s unique adaptations fully.
Bentley considers this discovery a highlight of his rainforest explorations, describing it as the rarest and most extraordinary encounter in his career. The enigmatic Taczanowskia waska spider’s resemblance to cordyceps stalks adds a fascinating chapter to the world of arachnids.