RM
LM of the spinnerets of a spider, Araneus sp.
Light micrograph of the spinnerets of a spider, Araneus diadematus, from which silk is extruded. Spiders have four or six spinnerets borne in a group on the tip of the abdomen. This species has four, only three of which are visible here (the large red appendages). Behind the spinnerets, in the base of the abdomen, are the silk glands. Ducts lead from the silk glands to tiny spigots in the ends of the spinnerets. The silk is produced and emitted as a liquid, but quickly becomes solidified when exposed to the air. Magnification: x60 at 35mm size.
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