South American Eucalyptus Sawfly vs Hawaiian Big-headed Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute South American Eucalyptus Sawfly Hawaiian Big-headed Ant
Scientific Name Lophyrotoma zonalis Pheidole megacephala
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Pergidae Formicidae
Size 10-14 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Farmland Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Seed Feeders
Regions Australia, invasive in South America Hawaii, Pacific Islands
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

South American Eucalyptus Sawfly

A dark-bodied pergid sawfly that has become a significant pest of eucalyptus plantations in South America. Larvae are gregarious and can cause severe defoliation.

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Did You Know?

This Australian native became a major pest after eucalyptus was widely planted in South America, far from its natural enemies.

Hawaiian Big-headed Ant

An invasive ant now widespread in Hawaii with a disproportionately large head in the soldier caste. It displaces native insects throughout the islands.

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Did You Know?

It is listed among the world's 100 worst invasive species by the IUCN.