Synema globosum is a species of spiders belonging to the family Thomisidae (crab spiders). It is sometimes called the Napoleon spider, because of a supposed resemblance of the markings on the abdomen to a silhouette of Napoleon wearing his iconic hat.

The adult males reach 2 - 4 mm in length, while females are 7 - 8 mm long. They can mostly be encountered from May through August on flowering plants (especially yellow or red Apiaceae species), waiting for their prey.
 The two pairs of the front legs, used for hunting the flower-feeding insects, are more developed than the rear ones, which have a predominant motor function.
 A striking feature of this species is the variation in colour among females. Mature males have a black abdomen with two white marks. In mature females, the background colour of the abdomen can be red, yellow or white, with a black pattern which has been noted for a certain resemblance to the silhouette of Napoleon. Prosoma and legs are black or dark brown.
 Like other species of the family Thomisidae, these spiders do not make a web, but actively hunt their prey.

Description

This species is present in most countries of Europe and in the eastern Palearctic realm, although absent from Scandinavia and the British Isles. It is especially common throughout the Mediterranean region.

Distribution

harmful

bite

Synema globosum is considered a tree pest because it preys on various insects that inhabit trees, including beneficial ones like pollinators and predators, which can disrupt the ecological balance and health of the tree. Additionally, their presence and feeding behavior can cause damage to the foliage and overall structure of the tree.

tree pest

Synema globosum can be considered a garden pest because they often prey on beneficial insects in gardens, such as pollinators and natural predators, which can disrupt the ecological balance and health of the garden ecosystem. Additionally, their presence and feeding behavior can cause damage to plants and flowers in the garden.

garden pest

Synema globosum can be considered a crop pest because they have been observed preying on beneficial insects in agricultural fields, including pollinators and natural predators, which can disrupt the ecological balance and health of the crop ecosystem. Additionally, their feeding behavior can cause damage to crops, affecting their yield and quality.

crop pest

Synema globosum is considered a pest because it preys on beneficial insects such as pollinators and natural predators, disrupting the ecological balance and potentially causing damage to trees, gardens, and crops.

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