Allantinae
Allantinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Tenthredinidae
- Subfamily: Allantinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Allantinae: /ˌælænˈtɪniː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Allantinae is a diverse subfamily of sawflies comprising approximately 110 genera, known for their significant ecological and economic roles, particularly as herbivores that can become pests on ornamental and agricultural plants.
Physical Characteristics
Medium to large sawflies, identifiable by their distinctive body morphology and the structure of their wings.
Identification Tips
Characters such as the shape of the body, the venation pattern on the wings, and the characteristics of the antennae can help in identifying different genera within this subfamily.
Habitat
They are generally found in areas where their host plants grow, which include various habitats ranging from gardens to wildflower fields.
Distribution
Approximately 90 species in 14 genera are found in the specified area; globally around 850 species in 107 genera.
Diet
Larvae primarily feed on a variety of host plants including strawberries, raspberries, roses, violets, dogwood, and loosestrife.
Life Cycle
The life cycle typically includes a larval stage that feeds on plants, followed by pupation, often within the fruit or wood of their host plants.
Reproduction
Details on reproduction can vary; generally, females lay eggs on or near host plants, which hatch into larvae that feed before pupating.
Predators
No specific information on predators is available, but generally, sawfly larvae may be preyed upon by birds and other insects.
Ecosystem Role
As herbivores, they play a significant role in the plant community and as prey for other organisms.
Economic Impact
Some species are considered pests, particularly the larvae of Monostegia abdominalis which feed on commercially valuable plants like Yellow Loosestrife.
Evolution
Evolutionary relationships within this subfamily are characterized by their diversity across several tribes and genera.
Similar Taxa
- Tenthredinidae
- sawflies
Tags
- sawflies
- Allantinae
- Tenthredinidae
- insects
- herbivores