Pergidae

Definition

A family of sawflies (suborder Symphyta, order Hymenoptera) comprising approximately 450 described species, ranking as the third-largest sawfly family after Tenthredinidae and Argidae. Members occur primarily in the Western Hemisphere and Australasian Region, exhibiting considerable variation in antennal morphology—from simple filiform to serrate, pectinate, or bipectinate forms. Sexual dimorphism is common, often involving differences in antennae, coloration, and body size. The family includes notable flight-modified forms: the apterous genus *Cladomacra* (Papua New Guinea, Indonesia) and the brachypterous *Clarissa tasbates* (Tasmania).

Etymology

Example

The pergid genus *Perga* includes economically significant leaf-feeding species in Australia, where larvae are known as 'spitfires' for their defensive oral secretions.

Related Terms

• Symphyta
• Tenthredinidae
• Argidae
• sawfly
• Apterous
• brachypterous
• pectinate antennae
• Sexual dimorphism

Usage Notes

Specialists distinguish pergids from other sawfly families primarily by larval morphology and adult antennal structure; the family is particularly diverse in Australia and South America. The term refers to the family rank and takes plural agreement in formal taxonomic usage (e.g., 'the Pergidae are characterized by...').