2026-03-31
Mehita Iqani, Anna Feigenbaum, Tamara Kredo, Suntosh R. Pillay, Carolina Matos, Kevin Guyan
Original article: https://doi.org/10.17159/sajs.2026/22446 In the Structured Conversation by Iqani et al., the affiliation for Kevin Guyan was incorrectly given as the University of Glasgow. The correct affiliation for Kevin Guyan is: Business School, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
2026-03-26
Ivan Müller, Danielle Dolley, Markus Gerber, Deborah Zeller, Siphesihle Nqweniso, Patricia Arnaiz, Larissa Adams, Nandi Joubert, Peter Steinmann, Rosa du Randt, Jürg Utzinger, Uwe Pühse, Cheryl Walter
2026-03-26
Paul M. Thompson, Giovanni Salum, Ronald C. Kessler, Bernard Lerer, Lukoye Atwoli, John Joska, Valerie Mizrahi
2026-03-26
Leslie Swartz
2026-03-26
David J.N. Limebeer, Michael Graham
A three-dimensional model for the release dynamics of a category of orb web spiders is developed. The web response depends on the material properties of the web silk and its geometric layout. A detailed aerodynamic damping analysis is provided for webs operating in still air. The web is assumed to operate at strain values below the web material yield point and also to remain in tension throughout transient operation. The spider is faced with a multidimensional optimisation problem that involves balancing the need for a fast web response and manageable web-material forces. Other issues, not discussed, include the protection of the web from prey-impact and wind-related damage. It is shown that the aerodynamic damping of the web is dominated by the concentric capture fibres. Significance: Classical results from structural and fluid mechanics are used to model the dynamical behaviour of the slingshot spider and its web. The motion of the spider and its web in stationary air is analysed, with the influence of the web’s structure on its aerodynamic performance demonstrated. Several detailed support calculations appear in the supplementary material as appendices.