What Spiders Can Swim?
WouterSpiders are opportunistic predators that are capable of catching anything they can find. They have a number of vibration detecting organs and are able to identify the direction and distance of the source of vibrations. They can also use wind to move around on water.
Some species of aquatic spiders are able to swim and walk on water. These are usually called fishing spiders. They can also live underwater for long periods of time.
These aquatic spiders are mostly found in freshwater habitats. These types of spiders have special legs that are hydrophobic. These are lightweight and allow them to float on the surface. They also have a waxy substance that helps them to float. This allows them to breathe when they’re underwater.
Some semiaquatic spiders are also able to swim. They may be able to swim for several minutes or even hours at a time. They are able to do this by creating an air bubble around their body. This air bubble is made from air that is stored in their hairs.
They can also build a web. The inflated web acts as a gill. When an air-breathing spider is in the water, it forms a dome-shaped bubble. Its bubble carries air and serves as an oxygen reservoir. It slits expand and close like the human lungs when it breathes. The slits in the abdomen then allow the air to come in contact with surrounding air.
Some of these spiders have very sensitive hairs on their feet and legs. These hairs are capable of storing air and are able to trap air when they swim.
