Yes, spider webs, particularly the silk they are made from, possess waterproof properties.
Spider silk is an incredibly strong and versatile natural material produced by spiders. This silk is used for various purposes, including spinning webs to catch prey, creating egg sacs, and for draglines for movement. A notable characteristic of spider silk is its resilience to water.
According to research, spider silk is tougher, more elastic, and more waterproof than silkworm silk. This enhanced waterproof quality is one of the reasons spider silk has captured scientific interest for potential wider applications compared to more commonly harvested silkworm silk.
Why is Spider Silk Waterproof?
The exact reasons behind the waterproof nature of spider silk are complex, involving its protein structure and the way it is spun. However, this property is crucial for the survival of the web and the spider, especially in environments exposed to rain or dew.
- Web Integrity: A waterproof web doesn't absorb excessive water, which could make it heavy, sag, lose its tension, or become less sticky. This helps the web maintain its structure and effectiveness in catching prey, even during or after precipitation.
- Prey Capture: While the sticky capture silk strands are designed to hold insects, excessive water could potentially wash away or dilute the adhesive properties. The waterproof nature of the silk helps preserve the stickiness.
- Spider's Home: For spiders that reside on or within their webs, the waterproof quality offers some protection from the elements.
Comparing Spider Silk and Silkworm Silk
While both are natural protein fibers, they differ significantly in properties:
| Property | Spider Silk | Silkworm Silk |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Very High (Often Stronger) | High |
| Elasticity | High (Can stretch significantly) | Lower than Spider Silk |
| Toughness | Very High (Absorbs more energy) | Lower than Spider Silk |
| Waterproof? | More waterproof | Less waterproof |
As the reference highlights, spider capture silk is notably elastic, remaining unbroken after stretching 2-4 times its original length. Combined with its waterproof nature, this makes spider silk an exceptional material perfectly adapted for its role in the natural world and a subject of significant scientific interest for bio-inspired materials.
