How do *Dolomedes* spiders run across the water surface using their physical structure?
Answer
Utilizing naturally hydrophobic, velvety hairs and surface tension
The capacity of *Dolomedes* spiders to move across water stems directly from their physical structure. They are covered in short, velvety hairs that possess a natural characteristic known as hydrophobicity, meaning they repel water. This property allows them to effectively utilize the water's surface tension. By resting their weight upon this tension without breaking through, they gain the ability to stand or run across the water's surface, mimicking the movement patterns seen in insects like water striders.
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