Elm Zigzag Sawfly vs African Wild Silk Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Elm Zigzag Sawfly | African Wild Silk Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aproceros leucopoda | Gonometa postica |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Argidae | Lasiocampidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 50-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | East Asia, invasive in Europe | East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Elm Zigzag Sawfly
A small, pale green sawfly of East Asian origin that has become invasive in Europe. Larvae create distinctive zigzag feeding patterns on elm leaves.
Did You Know?
This species reproduces entirely by parthenogenesis in its invasive range; males have never been found in Europe.
African Wild Silk Moth
A medium-sized brown moth whose caterpillars spin tough, golden silk cocoons on Acacia branches. It has been investigated as a source of commercial wild silk in East Africa.
Did You Know?
Its silk is being developed as a sustainable textile, and wild harvesting of cocoons provides income for rural communities in East Africa.