2007-09-06 15:42:52 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
Spiders can use silk in a number of ways.
The typical "spider web" you are talking about (with radial strands, and concentric circles of sticky strands) is actually called an "orb web" and is the most sophisticated use of spider silk (a large web, having in the void between two or more points to catch flying insects).
Cobwebs, also known as "tangle webs" are less structured (looking more like a tangle of threads), and will often be found in corners or lying flush on surfaces. The name actually comes from the old word "coppe", meaning "spider".
You also get funnel-webs (leading towards a hole or burrow, containing the spider), tubular webs (running up trees), and sheet webs.
Other uses of silk inslide nets that are thrown by the spider, draglines to "anchor" a hunting spider, and others.
2007-09-06 20:59:46 · answer #1 · answered by gribbling 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Cobwebs are used spider webs that get dirt and lint trapped in them.
2007-09-06 15:48:32 · answer #2 · answered by James 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Cobwebs are abandoned spiderwebs.
2007-09-06 15:52:02 · answer #3 · answered by nursesr4evr 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I dont think there is a difference...
2007-09-06 15:49:57 · answer #4 · answered by Ginko 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋