University Research
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Description
Most orb-weaving spiders use static webs that deform only after flying prey hit the webs. However, ray spiders (Theridiosoma gemmosum) pull orb webs into cones that are loaded with enough elastic energy to snap back like slingshots at accelerations of up to 504 m s−2 once released. We test the hypothesis that ray spiders sense vibrations from flying insects to release their webs and capture prey in mid-flight. We show that spiders release webs in response to live tethered mosquitoes that are not touching silk. Web release is most likely when mosquitoes are in front of the web and within the ‘capture cone’ where the capture spiral moves directly into the insects’ flight. In summary, ray spiders use airborne stimuli to determine both the direction and distance of flying prey. Perception of airborne cues from flying insects may be an under-appreciated source of information for other web-building spider species about the approach, size and/or behaviors of insects prior to contact with webs.
Publisher name
Company of Biologists
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N/A
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N/A
Document Type
Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) Link
https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.249237
Publication Date
12-1-2024
Publication Title
Journal of Experimental Biology
Volume
227
Issue
23
Recommended Citation
Han, Sarah and Blackledge, Todd A., "Directional Web Strikes Performed by Ray Spiders in Response to Airborne Prey Vibrations" (2024). University Research. 71.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/university_research/71
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.