Common crab spider
Xysticus cristatus
7 mmAdult female
Body length
Body length
od przodu głowotułowia do końca odwłoka · bez nóg, nogogłaszczków i wysuniętych szczękoczułkówMeasurement: side
Common crab spider — size comparison
Xysticus cristatus is a small crab spider found in grassy areas and low vegetation, including woodland edges. It is widespread in Europe and Asia. Its brown-and
Silhouette comparison
Length
od przodu głowotułowia do końca odwłoka · bez nóg, nogogłaszczków i wysuniętych szczękoczułkówScale for the stated dimensions · each animal is labelled
Measurement comparisonScale in cm
0246810
7 mm
8.56 cm
The scale compares the named dimensions. View direction and measurement points are given for each animal.
Common crab spider — size comparison — facts and sources
Xysticus cristatus is a small crab spider found in grassy areas and low vegetation, including woodland edges. It is widespread in Europe and Asia. Its brown-and-beige pattern matches the colours of dry grass blades, leaves and soil.
It ambushes insects from a short distance. Spread legs allow it to enclose prey, while its stocky body helps maintain contact with the plant or ground.
The female cares for the egg sac, remaining beside the protective covering. Its dorsal pattern varies, and other Xysticus species may look very similar, so reliable identification requires consideration of finer features.