How Do Spiders Run Out of Silk?
WouterSpiders are able to produce silk, a thread-like substance, from proteins derived from their prey. They have glands on their abdomen, legs and feet that produce this thread. They also have a spinneret, an organ on their abdomen. This organ produces several types of thread from silk.
The silk that spiders produce is used to construct webs. The main purpose of a web is to collect food. Various species of spiders build their own webs or use other spider’s webs for different reasons.
When making a web, spiders have a very detailed plan. After collecting their first strand of silk, the spider flies outward in a spiral shape, placing the silk under the wing. They then wait for their next meal. The spider is then ready to start constructing the frame of the web.
They start by raising their front legs to feel the wind. They then wiggle their legs to release the silk. Once the spider has released the thread, it will attach it to certain points on the web.
The thread is made from several interconnected protein chains. It is lightweight and strong. The thread can stretch four times its original length. Eventually, the silk loses its stickiness and becomes hardened.
Spiders need to metabolize their prey in order to replenish their silk supply. In addition to feeding, some spiders use their own web to gather their own food. They can also drink the dew from their own web.
