European Pine Sawfly vs Maricopa Harvester Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Pine Sawfly | Maricopa Harvester Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neodiprion sertifer | Pogonomyrmex maricopa |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Diprionidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm (adult) | 6-10 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Heathland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America | North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
European Pine Sawfly
A common defoliator of pines in Europe and an invasive pest in North America. Larvae feed gregariously on older needles of various pine species.
Did You Know?
A nuclear polyhedrosis virus naturally controls its populations and is used as a biopesticide.
Maricopa Harvester Ant
Produces the most toxic insect venom known — with an LD50 of 0.12 mg/kg in mice. Just 12 stings can deliver a lethal dose to a 2 kg mammal.
Did You Know?
The venom of this ant is 20 times more potent than honey bee venom — it is the most toxic insect venom ever measured, yet the ant is only stung-aggressive when defending its nest.