Beneficial-predator
Guides
Araneus gemmoides
cat-faced spider, jewel spider
Araneus gemmoides is a common North American orb-weaver spider found in Canada and the United States. Adults are recognized by two prominent horn-shaped projections on the abdomen that create a cat-faced appearance. Females are considerably larger than males and die shortly after producing a single egg sac. The species builds vertical orb-webs near artificial lights and building exteriors, where it captures flying insects at night while hiding in a retreat during the day.
Argiope
Garden Orbweavers, St Andrew's Cross Spiders, Writing Spiders, Garden Spiders
Argiope is a genus of large, colorful orb-weaving spiders in the family Araneidae. The name derives from Greek, meaning 'silver-faced,' referring to the silvery cephalothorax characteristic of many species. Females are notably larger than males and often display striking abdominal color patterns in yellow, black, and silver. These spiders construct spiral orb webs that frequently include a conspicuous zigzag silk structure called a stabilimentum. The genus has a worldwide distribution, with species found across tropical and temperate regions on every continent except Antarctica.
Argiope aurantia
yellow garden spider, black and yellow garden spider, golden garden spider, writing spider, zigzag spider, zipper spider, black and yellow argiope, corn spider, Steeler spider, McKinley spider
Argiope aurantia is a large orb-weaving spider recognized by its bold yellow and black abdominal markings and distinctive web architecture. Females construct conspicuous circular webs up to 60 cm in diameter, featuring a dense zigzag band of silk called a stabilimentum at the center. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism: females reach 19–28 mm in body length with a mass around 752 mg, while males are substantially smaller at 5–9 mm. This spider is common in gardens, meadows, and open habitats across much of North America, where it serves as a significant predator of insects and other small arthropods.
Eremobates icenogelei
camel spider, sun spider, wind scorpion, solifuge
Eremobates icenogelei is a species of solifuge (camel spider) in the family Eremobatidae. Solifugids are arachnids distinct from spiders and scorpions, characterized by their large, powerful chelicerae and rapid running ability. This species, like other members of its genus, inhabits arid and semi-arid regions of western North America. They are nocturnal predators that actively hunt small arthropods using their formidable jaws rather than venom. Despite their fearsome appearance, they pose no venomous threat to humans, though they can deliver a painful bite if handled carelessly.
Pholcus phalangioides
Long-bodied Cellar Spider, Cosmopolitan Cellar Spider, Daddy Long-legs Spider
Pholcus phalangioides is a long-legged cellar spider native to Asia that has become cosmopolitan through human association. Females reach about 7-8 mm body length with legs 5-6 times longer; males are slightly smaller at 6-10 mm. The species is notable for building loose, irregular webs in dark indoor spaces and for its specialized predatory behaviors including web invasion and aggressive mimicry. It preys on other spiders—including dangerous species such as redbacks—and exhibits a distinctive whirling defense against predators. Despite common misconceptions, its bite is harmless to humans.
Pisaurina dubia
Pisaurina dubia is a nursery web spider in the family Pisauridae, found across the southern two-thirds of the eastern United States. It is smaller than most pisaurids, measuring 12–15 mm in body length, and overwinters as a subadult before maturing in spring. The species is distinguished by a central tuft of hair projecting from between the eyes on the cephalothorax. Females construct nursery webs in vegetation to protect their egg sacs and guard spiderlings until they disperse.
Scutigeridae
house centipedes, typical house centipedes
Scutigeridae is a family of centipedes commonly known as house centipedes, characterized by their synanthropic habits and frequent association with human dwellings. The family includes well-known species such as Scutigera coleoptrata and Allothereua maculata, which have been anthropogenically introduced worldwide. Members of this family are fast-moving predators with elongated legs adapted for rapid locomotion. The family comprises approximately 25 genera, with fossil evidence dating to the Early Cretaceous.