New spider species in the Amazon mimics parasitic fungus
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A newly discovered spider species in the Amazon, Taczanowskia waska, has been found to mimic a parasitic fungus to trick prey and avoid predators. The species was identified through a collaboration between researchers and citizen scientists on the iNaturalist platform.
In the Amazon, a new spider species has been discovered that mimics a parasitic fungus. The spider, Taczanowskia waska, plays dead and snatches prey with its front legs. It was found in Ecuador by Alexander Bentley, a conservationist. The species was identified with the help of citizen scientists on iNaturalist. Taczanowskia waska is a patient hunter that uses its fungal disguise to avoid predators and trick prey. It is one of only eight known relatives in its genus.
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