European Spruce Sawfly vs European Xiphydriid
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Spruce Sawfly | European Xiphydriid |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gilpinia hercyniae | Xiphydria longicollis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Diprionidae | Xiphydriidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, introduced to North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
European Spruce Sawfly
A moderately sized sawfly with dark brown to black coloring and pectinate antennae in males. Larvae are green with white lateral stripes and feed on spruce needles.
Did You Know?
After its introduction to North America in the 1920s, it caused massive spruce defoliation until a naturally occurring nuclear polyhedrosis virus brought populations under control.
European Xiphydriid
A slender wood wasp with a notably elongated pronotum giving it a long-necked appearance. The body is dark with pale lateral spots on the abdomen.
Did You Know?
The elongated 'neck' that gives xiphydriids their distinctive appearance is actually an elongation of the pronotum, unique among wood wasps.