How Can Spiders Jump Far?
WouterJumping spiders are unique amongst insects. They have the ability to leap at up to fifty times their body length. They are also known to have incredible eyes.
The jump is attributed to a change in the blood pressure of the legs. They use an internal hydraulic system that allows them to do this without having to have large muscular legs. It also provides a safety net for them mid-jump.
To make a long jump, they must use steeper takeoff angles. This minimizes energy expenditure, as well as the amount of time it takes them to reach their destination. The shorter the flight time, the higher the probability that they will catch a target.
Another way they can achieve a jump is by spinning a silk line. This creates tension in the line, which helps the spider adjust their body for a smooth landing.
Aside from their extraordinary eyes, the jumping spider also has an excellent hearing. These animals can hear sounds up to 10 feet away. This is the reason they were recently discovered to be able to perceive sound waves.
The jumping spiders’ ability to do the aforementioned was attributed to the presence of a sensory hair that sends signals to their brains. Scientists studied these hairs and discovered that they actually caused vibrations in the spider’s muscles. This gave them a sense of how much distance they could cover, as well as the direction they would travel.
