A peculiar phenomenon likened to the zombie fungus featured in HBO’s The Last of Us series has been observed infiltrating spider populations within a Scottish rainforest. The Gibellula fungus, residing in the forests of West Cowal, Argyll, has been documented consuming spiders from within before bursting out of the body to seek its subsequent prey. Belonging to the Cordycipitaceae family, the Gibellula fungus shares lineage with the famous Cordyceps fungus depicted in The Last of Us video game and TV show, starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey.
Unearthed as part of a community conservation initiative, the fungus was discovered within the West Cowal Habitat Restoration Project led by the Argyll Countryside Trust. This project has identified over 650 species in the region, including vibrant slime moulds, glow-worms, moths, butterflies, orchids, jellyfish, alongside other wildlife distinctive to temperate rainforests like rare lichens and mosses. Amateur naturalist Ben Mitchell encountered two instances of the “zombie spider” Gibellula fungus and expressed his enthusiasm for the discovery.
Mitchell noted the intriguing behaviour of the Gibellula fungus, mentioning its tendency to compel spiders to reposition themselves on the underside of leaves before affixing them there. This peculiar behaviour aids in protecting the spores from rain exposure, facilitating their dissemination onto unsuspecting spiders more effectively. While acknowledging the grim nature of the phenomenon, Mitchell emphasised its integral role in the fascinating ecosystem.
The West Cowal Habitat Restoration Project aims to revive the rare temperate rainforest covering the Kilfinan and Colintraive peninsulas, including the Kyles of Bute National Scenic Area. Woodland Coordinator Ian Dow highlighted the project’s focus on habitat restoration, particularly emphasising rhododendron control and deer management. The restoration efforts seek to evaluate the region’s ecological losses and remaining biodiversity, with a profound appreciation for the community’s involvement in preserving the local rainforest.
Scotland’s temperate rainforest, spanning approximately 30,000 hectares, boasts ancient woods characterised by mild climate and abundant rainfall. The ongoing restoration endeavours in the West Cowal region have unveiled a wealth of biodiversity underscoring the significance of conserving these unique ecosystems. The remarkable discoveries within the rainforest underscore the importance of sustaining conservation efforts to safeguard these invaluable natural habitats.