European Oil Bee vs Australian Satin Sawfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Oil Bee | Australian Satin Sawfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Macropis europaea | Perga lewisi |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Melittidae | Pergidae |
| Size | 9-12 mm | 14-20 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Western Asia | Australia |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
European Oil Bee
One of only two Northern Hemisphere bees that collect floral oils instead of nectar as a food provision. It collects oils from yellow loosestrife flowers.
Did You Know?
It mixes collected floral oil with pollen to create a waterproof, long-lasting larval food that resists mold in its damp underground nests.
Australian Satin Sawfly
A large Australian sawfly with a satiny dark blue-black body. Larvae are robust and feed in clusters on eucalyptus foliage.
Did You Know?
The larvae tap their bodies rhythmically against the branch when disturbed, producing vibrations that may alert other larvae in the colony.