Rock Ant vs Elm Zigzag Sawfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Rock Ant | Elm Zigzag Sawfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Temnothorax rugatulus | Aproceros leucopoda |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Argidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Woodlands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Western United States, Mexico | East Asia, invasive in Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Rock Ant
A tiny dark ant that nests in rock crevices at high elevations in western North America. Colonies contain about 200 workers and exhibit collective decision-making. Workers are dark brown with rugose sculpture on the body.
Did You Know?
Studies showed that about 40% of workers in a colony are consistently inactive, serving as a reserve labor force.
Elm Zigzag Sawfly
A small, pale green sawfly of East Asian origin that has become invasive in Europe. Larvae create distinctive zigzag feeding patterns on elm leaves.
Did You Know?
This species reproduces entirely by parthenogenesis in its invasive range; males have never been found in Europe.