How Spiders Use Other Spiders Webs
WouterSpiders build webs for many reasons. Some are used for mating and catching prey, while others are built for defense.
Orb webs are a common example of spiders’ ability to create complex structures with silk. These webs are often associated with spiders in the family Araneidae. Although they are usually constructed by spiders in this family, they can also be found in other families.
They are made of sticky silk. The silk is spun into fiber by spinnerets located on the spider’s abdomen. This silk has a great tensile strength. It is much stronger than steel. In addition, it loses its stickiness over time.
When making an orb web, spiders must choose the right anchor points and size the web. This requires cognitive skills and a good knowledge of the availability of silk. They also must consider the shape of the structure they want to create. With the help of light cues, they calculate the best shape for their web.
Most orb weavers construct their webs with a spiral design. However, they have also been known to use a ladder-like structure.
Some of these spiders also use funnels to wait for vibrating webs. These funnels are used as a hiding place, as well as a storage place for their eggs.
Another common type of spider web is a trapdoor web. This design is created to catch insects that fall from a tree.
Depending on their habitat, spiders use different kinds of silk to make their webs. Most of them make four to five types of silk. But there are some species that only make one kind of silk.
