Gooseberry Sawfly vs Malagasy Spiny Leaf Insect

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Gooseberry Sawfly Malagasy Spiny Leaf Insect
Scientific Name Nematus ribesii Phyllium malagassum
Order Hymenoptera Phasmatodea
Family Tenthredinidae Phylliidae
Size 6-8 mm (adult) 60-80 mm
Habitat Orchards Forests
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe, North America Madagascar
Conservation Not Evaluated Data Deficient

Gooseberry Sawfly

The most destructive insect pest of gooseberry and red currant bushes in Europe. Larvae can strip bushes completely of leaves within days.

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Did You Know?

Three generations per year mean larvae can be found feeding from spring through autumn.

Malagasy Spiny Leaf Insect

A remarkable leaf insect with a broad, flat green body that exactly mimics a living leaf, complete with mid-ribs, veins, and even faux bite marks. Females are wingless while males can fly.

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Did You Know?

When walking, it sways side to side to mimic a leaf blowing in the wind, making it nearly impossible to detect among real foliage.