European Spruce Sawfly vs Turnip Sawfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Spruce Sawfly | Turnip Sawfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gilpinia hercyniae | Athalia rosae |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Diprionidae | Tenthredinidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 6-8 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, introduced to North America | Europe, Asia |
| 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.
Turnip Sawfly
A small orange and black sawfly whose larvae defoliate brassica crops.
Did You Know?
Larvae sequester glucosinolates from their food plants for chemical defense.