Scientists discover spider that looks like a fungus in Amazon biodiversity hotspot

Taczanowskia Waska. PIC COURTESY/David Diaz-Guevara

Researchers in the Amazon have discovered an unknown species of spider that looks like a mushroom in Ecuador's Llanganates-Sangay Corridor - one of the world's richest biodiversity hotspots. The find unveils a form of mimicry never before documented in spiders.

The newly identified species, Taczanowskia waska, closely resembles the fruiting body of Gibellula fungus, a parasite that grows on spiders. It also stays motionless on the undersides of leaves, the same location where Gibellula fungi are commonly found.

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