Viper's Bugloss Mining Bee vs Willow Sawfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Viper's Bugloss Mining Bee Willow Sawfly
Scientific Name Andrena nasuta Nematus salicis
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Andrenidae Tenthredinidae
Size 11-13 mm 7-9 mm (adult)
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Wetlands
Diet Pollen Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Near Threatened Not Evaluated

Viper's Bugloss Mining Bee

A specialist mining bee with an elongated face adapted for feeding on tubular flowers, particularly viper's bugloss. It is found primarily in coastal and sandy habitats.

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Did You Know?

Its elongated face and tongue are so specialized for viper's bugloss flowers that it struggles to feed from most other flower shapes.

Willow Sawfly

A defoliator of willows across Europe found in wetlands and riparian areas. Larvae feed gregariously on willow leaves from May to autumn.

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Did You Know?

Multiple overlapping generations allow continuous feeding pressure throughout the growing season.