Araneus

is a major genus of orb-weaver spiders, commonly known as garden spiders or cross spiders . It is one of the most diverse and widely distributed genera within the family Araneidae , with approximately 138 species recorded globally across all major regions. Biological Overview

: Members of the order Araneae and family Araneidae .

: Most species have a large, bulbous abdomen, often bearing a distinctive pattern of symmetrical pale spots or a "cross" (especially in Araneus diadematus ). Females are typically significantly larger (up to 25 mm) than males.

: While they use low-toxicity venom to immobilize prey like flies and wasps, they are generally considered harmless to humans . Habitat and Behavior