 Over 10,000 arthropod species are currently considered to be pest organisms. They are estimated to contribute to the destruction of 14% of the world's annual crop production and transmit many pathogens. Spider venom peptides are now being investigated as potential sources of bio-insecticides. Their venom has proven to be a rich source of hyper-stable insecticidal mini-proteins. This article was authored by Glenn F. King, Monique J. Windley, Margaret C. Hardy, and others.