Crab Spider

Crab Spiders: The Sideways Crawlers

Understanding the Crab Spider

Crab spiders, aptly named for their crab-like appearance and sideways locomotion, belong to the Thomisidae family, comprising over 170 genera and 2,100 species. These spiders are distinguishable by their flattened bodies and legs that bend and extend sideways, resembling a crab's movement.

Crab Spiders and Their Camouflage

Flower crab spiders, one of 27 species in the family, possess an exceptional ability to alter their body color to match their surroundings. This remarkable camouflage allows them to blend seamlessly with flowers, a common hunting ground for their insect prey.