Which species of spider weaves the strongest web?
The Kukulcania genus (2 species) spins web with the highest tensile strength. For its size, it is stronger than suspension cables used in bridges. Spider silk also has ‘elasic’ properties that are superior to man made products like kevlar. The comb footed cobweb spider (black widow is one) comes in a very close second, and their silk has been used in optical instruments like survey transits and bomb sights. Dave is correct in that the nephila genus spins a stronger web, but the silk strand is much larger. Birds and bats have been caught in their webs.
