Description: Numbering about 3,000 U.S. species, spiders are a diverse group of predators. They're distinguished from insects by their two main body parts and eight legs.

Key benefits: In the Pacific Northwest, crab spiders are important predators that contribute to the overall natural control of many pest insects. They are general feeders that do not spin webs but instead lie in wait on foliage, grabbing their prey as it moves closer. Wolf spiders use their running speed to capture prey, which include both harmful and beneficial insects.

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