Spiders

Order: Araneae

Description

All spiders feed on insects or other small arthropods. Most people are familiar with the common web-making species. However, there are many other spiders – wolf spiders, crab spiders, jumping spiders – that do not build webs but instead move about and hunt their prey on soil or plants. These less conspicuous spiders can be important in controlling insect pests such as beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers and aphids. 

Wolf Spider

David Cappaert, Bugwood.org 
Wolf spider.

Jumping spider

Florida Division of Plant Industry, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bugwood.org 
Jumping spider, phidippus audax.

Crab Spider

Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org 
Crab Spider.

Quick Facts

  • Beneficial arthropods can prevent or limit pest problems in the yard and garden. 
  • These beneficial spiders can be categorized broadly as either insect predators or parasites.
  • Common insect parasitoids include flies and small wasps.
  • When insecticides are needed, choose ones that are selective and less likely to harm beneficial insects and mites. 

CSU Extension Fact Sheet

Download or view the CSU Extension’s PDF fact sheet for your reference.

Full Jumping Spider Fact Sheet

Download or view the Jumping Spider PDF fact sheet for your reference.