Photo: James Niland from Brisbane, Australia · CC BY 2.0
Thomisidae
Flower Crab Spider Identification in Australia
Small spider with crab-like sideways legs, often waiting on flowers or foliage.
Usually low riskFirst aid / what to do now
- Move away from the spider and avoid handling it.
- Wash the bite area with soap and water.
- Use a cold pack for pain or swelling.
- Call 13 11 26 or seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, spreading, infected-looking, allergic, or you are unsure what bit you.
This site cannot diagnose a bite. In an emergency call 000. For poisoning advice in Australia call 13 11 26.
Quick identification
- Front legs held sideways
- Often sits still on flowers
- Small ambush hunter
- May match flower or bark colour
Danger level
Usually low risk
What to check next
Check for crab-like posture on flowers or leaves.
When to seek medical help
Seek advice only for severe or unexpected symptoms.
Where it is usually seen
Flowers, shrubs, leaves, bark and garden plants.
Similar spiders
Use the homepage identifier to compare this spider against other Australian spiders by size, colour, location and web clues.