Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly vs Alfalfa Caterpillar Parasite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly | Alfalfa Caterpillar Parasite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Perga polita | Cotesia medicaginis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Pergidae | Braconidae |
| Size | 14-20 mm | 2-4 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Farmland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Parasitoids |
| Regions | Southeastern Australia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly
A robust Australian sawfly with a dark, polished body. Its gregarious larvae cluster on eucalyptus branches and produce a strong eucalyptus odor when disturbed.
Did You Know?
The powerful eucalyptus-oil smell released by disturbed larvae can be detected from several meters away and serves as a chemical defense.
Alfalfa Caterpillar Parasite
A small braconid wasp that parasitizes alfalfa butterfly caterpillars in agricultural fields. Larvae spin white cocoons after emerging from the host.
Did You Know?
It can reduce alfalfa caterpillar populations by over 50% in some fields without any pesticide use.