When you think of something incredibly strong, steel probably comes to mind. But pound for pound, spider silk is stronger than steel—and more flexible, too! This natural fiber, spun from a spider’s abdomen, is one of the toughest substances found in nature.
There are many types of spider silk, each designed for a different purpose. Some silk is sticky for trapping prey, while other strands are used to form structural frameworks or create egg sacs. The strongest variety—dragline silk—is what spiders use to make the spokes of their webs. It can stretch without breaking and absorb huge amounts of energy, making it both durable and elastic.
Scientists are so impressed by spider silk’s properties that they’ve been trying for years to recreate it in labs. If we could produce it on a large scale, it could revolutionize everything from medical sutures to body armor. So, the next time you spot a spiderweb glistening in the sun, remember—it’s not just a delicate decoration. It’s a masterpiece of biological engineering.