Context: Researchers have discovered that spiders can alter how they receive vibratory information in loud environments. Spiders in urban environments can build webs that filter out loud ambient vibrations.
Spiders and vibratory information
- Spiders in urban environments can build webs that filter out loud ambient vibrations.
- Conversely, spiders from quieter rural spaces build webs that amplify biologically relevant vibrations they need to pick up in their noisy environment.
Key Facts about Spiders – Subpoints
Spiders Are Arachnids, Not Insects
They have eight legs and six or eight eyes, unlike insects which have six legs and two eyes.
Web-Building for Hunting
Spiders spin silk webs using liquid from special glands to catch insects.
Global Distribution
Found worldwide, except Antarctica.
Mostly Carnivorous, Some Exceptions
Most spiders eat insects, though one species in Central America is mainly herbivorous.
External Digestion
Spiders liquefy prey with digestive juices before consuming it.
Role in Ecosystems
Act as natural pest controllers and are prey for other animals.
Webs as Sensory Tools
Webs transmit vibrations; essential since spiders lack ears.
Remarkable Spider Silk
Known for its strength and flexibility, spider silk has inspired advances in medicine and materials science.
Molting to Grow
Spiders shed their exoskeleton several times before adulthood.
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