Arge scapularis

elm argid sawfly

Arge scapularis, commonly known as the elm argid , is a sawfly in the found across North America. It is a herbivore that commonly infests elm trees (Ulmus spp.). The species name 'scapularis' refers to distinctive shoulder blade-like structures on the insect's . As a member of the suborder , it lacks the narrow ' waist' characteristic of many other Hymenoptera.

Arge scapularis by (c) Lacy L. Hyche, Auburn University, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.

Arge scapularis larvae by Lacy L. Hyche, Auburn University. Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.

Adult female Arge scapularis by Lacy L. Hyche, Auburn University. Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Arge scapularis: //ˈɑːrdʒi skæpjʊˈlɛərɪs//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from other by the prominent shoulder blade-like thoracic structures that give the its name. Belongs to , which can be separated from other sawfly families by antennal structure (Argidae typically have simple, unsegmented or weakly segmented , though specific details for A. scapularis are not documented). As a non-stinging sawfly, it lacks the narrow petiole (' waist') of wasps.

Images

Habitat

Associated with elm trees (Ulmus spp.) across its range. Specific microhabitat preferences for larvae or are not documented.

Distribution

Found across North America. Specific range boundaries are not well-documented in available sources.

Diet

Larvae feed on elm trees (Ulmus spp.). Specific feeding habits of are not documented.

Host Associations

Ulmus - larval food plantelm trees

Ecological Role

Herbivore that consumes elm foliage; specific ecological impacts or interactions are not documented.

Human Relevance

Considered a pest of elm trees due to larval feeding damage. Not known to sting or bite humans.

Similar Taxa

Other Argidae speciesSimilar body plan and lack of waist; distinguished by the distinctive scapular structures and association with elm
Apocrita waspsMay be superficially similar but possess narrow petiole (' waist') between and , which lack

More Details

Etymology

The name 'scapularis' directly references the insect's distinctive shoulder blade-like thoracic structures.

Taxonomic placement

As a member of suborder , this represents the more basal lineage of Hymenoptera, retaining a broad connection between and rather than the constricted waist of .