How Do Spiders Get Cold?
WouterSpiders have evolved to survive cold weather. Some species stay dormant during the winter, while others seek shelter and continue to be active. Whether a spider lives inside or outside, they can tolerate temperatures as low as -5 degrees Celsius.
Many spiders have been known to live for many months without food. This is a survival technique, and one that helps them maintain their body temperature. During cold weather, spiders do not shiver, as their body does not have much need for warmth. They also produce a chemical that is similar to antifreeze in cars, and this helps them to maintain their temperature.
There are several factors that affect the temperature of a spider. In addition to the temperature, spiders have to determine whether it is a good opportunity to eat. If the opportunity is not available, they will stop feeding. For instance, desert spiders can be inactive during times of extreme drought, but will be active during times of high heat.
When spiders get too cold, they enter a state called “diapause”. This is a temporary stop in movement. It is used to slow down metabolism and conserve moisture, as well as to keep spiders warm.
During the diapause, spiders produce glycerol, a protein compound that works similarly to antifreeze in cars. Glycerol keeps spiders warmer by preventing blood cells from freezing. However, glycerol is not a magic cure for a frozen spider.
Spiders that are not ectothermic can change their body temperature to suit their environment, but it is not easy to keep a spider from freezing. Some spiders can withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius.
