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Health & Science4h 23m ago

Scientists have discovered a new Amazonian spider, Taczanowskia waska, that disguises itself as a parasitic fungus to avoid predators and catch prey.

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Llanganates-Sangay Corridor, Ecuadorian Amazon

Who
scientists, Nadine Dupérré of the Museum of Nature Hamburg at LIB, researchers, citizen scientists
What
Scientists have discovered a new Amazonian spider, Taczanowskia waska, that disguises itself as a parasitic fungus to avoid predators and catch prey.
When
Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:21:08 GMT · 4h 23m ago
Where
Llanganates-Sangay Corridor, Ecuadorian Amazon ·
Why
The spider's disguise, mimicking the appearance and behavior of Gibellula fungi, helps it stay hidden from predators and potentially catch prey more easily.
The Frontline Impact

How this affects you

This discovery offers valuable insight into the evolution of mimicry and highlights both the vast biodiversity of rainforests and the increasing importance of citizen science in species discovery.

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  1. Currently Reading4h 23m ago
    Scientists have discovered a new Amazonian spider, Taczanowskia waska, that disguises itself as a parasitic fungus to avoid predators and catch prey.
  2. Health & Science4h 23m ago
    Scientists have discovered a new Amazonian spider, Taczanowskia waska, that disguises itself as a parasitic fungus.
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