Balsam Fir Sawfly vs Hawaiian Carnivorous Caterpillar
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Balsam Fir Sawfly | Hawaiian Carnivorous Caterpillar |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neodiprion abietis | Eupithecia staurophragma |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Diprionidae | Geometridae |
| Size | 6-8 mm | 20-25 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Eastern North America | Hawaii |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Balsam Fir Sawfly
A boreal sawfly whose dark green larvae with lighter stripes feed on balsam fir needles. Periodic outbreaks can cause significant defoliation in fir forests.
Did You Know?
Outbreaks of this species often follow those of the spruce budworm, as the already stressed trees are more susceptible to additional defoliation.
Hawaiian Carnivorous Caterpillar
A remarkable moth whose caterpillars are ambush predators of insects, unique among Lepidoptera. Found only in Hawaiian native forests.
Did You Know?
These are among the only caterpillars in the world that actively hunt and eat other insects.