Argidae

Definition

A family of sawflies (Hymenoptera: Symphyta) comprising approximately 800 species worldwide, with highest diversity in tropical regions. Members are distinguished from related sawfly families by reduced wing venation and larval feeding habits: Argidae larvae are external leaf-feeders that often aggregate in groups on host plants, though few species reach economic pest status. Adults are typically small to medium-sized with relatively broad, non-petiolate waists and simple or weakly branched antennae.

Etymology

From Greek argos (bright, shining), possibly referring to the metallic coloration of some species.

Example

Larvae of the rose argid sawfly Arge ochropus feed gregariously on Rosa foliage, skeletonizing leaves and leaving characteristic parallel feeding scars.

Synonyms

• argid sawflies

Related Terms

• Symphyta
• sawfly
• Tenthredinidae
• Phytophagy
• larval aggregation
• Hymenoptera

Usage Notes

Distinguished from the larger family Tenthredinidae by wing venation (Argidae lack the forewing cell 2M+Cu) and larval behavior (Argidae larvae typically feed exposed on foliage rather than concealed in stems, galls, or leaf mines). The common name "argid sawflies" is preferred in ecological literature to avoid confusion with the genus Arge alone.