Bug Identifier
Ground Crab Spider
Community identification

Ground Crab Spider

Xysticus

Order & Family
Araneae: Thomisidae
Size
3 mm to 10 mm (females are generally larger than males)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Leaves, soil surface, low-growing plants, and under rocks or logs

Diet & Feeding

Insects including flies, bees, butterflies, and small beetles; they are ambush predators

Behavior Patterns

Unlike web-building spiders, they lie in wait and ambush prey using their long front legs. They often move sideways like crabs.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans; beneficial to the ecosystem as they provide natural pest control by eating various insects.