Solomon's Seal Sawfly vs Common Stiletto Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Solomon's Seal Sawfly | Common Stiletto Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phymatocera aterrima | Thereva nobilitata |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Tenthredinidae | Therevidae |
| Size | 8-10 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Heathland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Solomon's Seal Sawfly
A small, entirely black sawfly whose grayish-white larvae with black heads are highly destructive to Solomon's seal plants. Larvae feed from the leaf edges inward.
Did You Know?
The larvae are so well camouflaged against the undersides of Solomon's seal leaves that gardeners often only notice them after severe damage is done.
Common Stiletto Fly
A slender, densely hairy fly with a pointed abdomen and silvery-white body hairs. Adults bask on sunlit leaves and bare ground, making short rapid flights when approached.
Did You Know?
Stiletto fly larvae are important biological control agents, feeding on root-eating pest larvae in sandy soils.