Tenthredinidae

Common name

Sawflies

Overview

Tenthredinidae is a family of insects commonly known as sawflies. These insects are primarily herbivorous, with larvae that resemble caterpillars. They are named for the saw-like ovipositor the females use to cut into plants to lay their eggs. This family is known for its diversity and wide distribution worldwide.

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Antennae : Usually 7 to 10 segments
  • Body : Generally slender with various colors
  • Wings : Transparent with well-defined venation
  • Ovipositor : Saw-like, used for laying eggs in plant tissue
  • Larvae : Caterpillar-like, often with more than five pairs of prolegs

Life Cycle

  1. Egg : Laid in plant tissue by the female's ovipositor.
  2. Larva : Resembles a caterpillar; feeds on plant material.
  3. Pupa : Forms a cocoon in the soil or on the host plant.
  4. Adult : Emerges from the pupa to continue the life cycle.

Behavior and Ecology

Sawflies are primarily herbivorous with larvae that feed on a wide variety of plants. Some species are solitary while others can be gregarious. Adult sawflies are typically seen around the plants their larvae infest. They play a role in both natural ecosystems and agriculture.

Notable Species

  • Hymenoptera sawfly (Tenthredo spp.) : Wide range of species with varied larval host plants.
  • Birch sawfly (Craesus septentrionalis) : Larvae feed on birch leaves.
  • Rose sawfly (Arge pagana) : Known for feeding on rose bushes.

Conservation

Sawflies are generally not considered endangered, though some species can be affected by habitat loss and pesticide use. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining host plant diversity and minimizing chemical impacts.

Significance to Humans

Sawflies can be pests in agriculture and forestry because their larvae feed on economically important plants. However, they can also serve as biological control agents and play a role in ecosystem function.

Fun Facts

  • Sawflies do not sting; their "saw" is harmless to humans.
  • The name "sawfly" comes from the saw-like appearance of the females' ovipositor.
  • Sawfly larvae often mimic the appearance of dangerous caterpillars to deter predators.
  • Some species exhibit synchronized hatching to overwhelm plant defenses.
  • Though they look caterpillar-like, sawfly larvae can be distinguished by having more than five pairs of prolegs.