We try to freeze mating web spiders using liquid nitrogen, but they always separate, even before the liquid falls on them. They are tiny spiders (-2 mm) of the Pholcidae family. Among the options we have already tested are:
1)Cutting off part of the web where they copulate decreases the ability to sense the liquid as it fell.
2)Remove the web completely.
3)Using a funnel and a hose so that the nitrogen vapor does not disturb the mating pair and at the same time direct the nitrogen in a more precise way
4)Throw the nitrogen as fast as possible on the mating pair
However, we were unsuccessful. What recommendations can you give us?
I have used CO2 to numb roaches and take pictures and measurements. I have never done it during copulation, or in spiders, but with insects it gives very good results. Perhaps you can use a combination of both techniques so that the couple does not disengage.
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