Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > General/curiosity insects > Insect relatives under ½ long > Goldenrod crab spider

Goldenrod crab spider

Misumena vatia

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Description: 1/10 - 1/3 inch long. Usually yellow or white, but can be brown. The first four legs are longer than the back four and are held out to the sides giving a crab-like appearance.

Where/When: Most common on yellow or white flowers.

Significance: Beneficial as predators of insects. Does not harm people.

More information on Goldenrod crab spiders