Short Wave Why Scientists Are Reanimating Spider Corpses For Research
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Oct 18, 2023 
Anil Oza, an expert in necrobotics, discusses the eerie yet fascinating world of reanimating dead spiders for scientific purposes. He explains how researchers transform these arachnids into innovative robotic grippers using their natural hydraulic systems. The conversation reveals intriguing insights about spider anatomy, the ethical considerations of necrobotics, and its potential for eco-friendly experimentation. With a touch of humor, Oza also highlights the public's fascination and the scientific community's initial fears surrounding these unconventional practices.
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Spider Discovery
- Faye Yap noticed dead spiders curled up in her lab, sparking curiosity about their posture.
- This led to research into using them as robotic grippers.
Spider Physiology
- Spiders' legs curl up when they die due to a lack of antagonistic muscle pairs.
- They rely on flexor muscles and hydraulic pressure for leg movement.
Successful Experiment
- Faye Yap and her colleagues successfully turned dead spiders into robotic grippers.
- They published a paper demonstrating the spiders' ability to pick up delicate objects.