About Apple Sawfly
A small brown-and-yellow sawfly that is a significant pest of apple orchards. Larvae bore into developing apples, leaving characteristic ribbon-like scars on the fruit surface.
Did You Know?
A single larva can destroy three to four developing fruits by boring through them, leaving a trail of frass-filled tunnels.
How to Identify Apple Sawfly
Apple Sawfly (Hoplocampa testudinea) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Tenthredinidae. Adults typically measure 6-7 mm.
Apple Sawfly Habitat
Apple Sawfly is found in orchards habitats, particularly across Europe, introduced to North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Apple Sawfly Diet and Feeding
Apple Sawfly feeds on fruits. Fruit-feeding insects are attracted to ripe and decaying fruit, and some species can be significant agricultural pests.
Where Is Apple Sawfly Found?
Apple Sawfly can be found in Europe, introduced to North America, where it inhabits orchards environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Apple Sawfly can be found
Is Apple Sawfly Dangerous?
Apple Sawfly belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Apple Sawfly Role in Nature
Apple Sawfly is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Sawfly
What does Apple Sawfly look like?
The Apple Sawfly typically measures 6-7 mm.
Where is Apple Sawfly found?
The Apple Sawfly is found in Europe, introduced to North America and typically inhabits orchards environments.
What does Apple Sawfly eat?
The Apple Sawfly feeds on fruits.
Is Apple Sawfly dangerous to humans?
The Apple Sawfly belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
What is an interesting fact about Apple Sawfly?
A single larva can destroy three to four developing fruits by boring through them, leaving a trail of frass-filled tunnels.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Apple Sawfly (Hoplocampa testudinea). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/apple-sawfly
MLA:
"Apple Sawfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/apple-sawfly.