Can Spiders Travel Across Oceans?
WouterIf you think spiders can’t travel across oceans, think again. Some species have been reported to sail as far as two or three miles above the surface of the water. They use silk to catch the wind and to anchor themselves to the surface of the water. They have also been known to fly up to 30km (18.6 miles) each day.
Researchers have long been curious about spiders that sail. However, most research has been done on land-loving species. A few of the species that can sail across oceans have been found in newly formed volcanic islands.
Ballooning is a trick spiders perform, but how does it work? Scientists have recently come up with a clear explanation. They have found spiders can sense an electric field that can pull on their strands, allowing them to float. They may also use silk to haul themselves to a landing or to attach to floating objects.
Spiders have been observed to raise their legs up like sails to ride air currents. This is similar to how ships act.
In fact, some spiders even use silk as their anchor. They can sail on both still and turbulent water. They can also sail across land using silk as their sail.
In the same vein, scientists have also figured out that spiders can detect the electrical field of the Earth. This can help them to stay aloft, or even propel them to new territory.
Spiders are also said to have super silk. This is the thread that forms a triangular shaped parachute. Some species have diving bells out of this silk, as well. They are also thought to be capable of using it to trap fish.
