Orkin Exterminator & Termite Control

California Crab Spiders

The crab spider belongs to the Order Araneae and Family Thomisidae. With flat bodies and long front legs, these arachnids appear to move the way that crabs do. However, although crab spiders resemble crabs, they exhibit behavior typical to spiders. California crab spiders prey on bees, insects and butterflies. They bite and paralyze their prey through the use of venom and all food sources are liquefied by digestive enzymes prior to consumption.

Crab spiders live for approximately one year and undergo a relatively simple life cycle. Females lay their eggs on plants or flowers and protect the eggs from harm. When egg sacs hatch, young crab spiders emerge. These young spiders appear similar to adults, although their bodies are significantly smaller. Crab spiders undergo a series of molts before becoming adults.

Of the 40 documented species around the globe, more than five genera of crab spiders reside in California. The most common, Xysticus Misumena vatia, is capable of changing colors from yellow to white or orange. Crab spiders blend in with flowers to surprise prey and are thus also known as flower spiders.

Crab Spiders

Grass Crab Spider

Flower Crab Spider

Crab Spider Diseases

Michigan Crab Spider

Giant Crab Spider Facts