About Dock Sawfly
A small, shiny dark green to black sawfly with pale legs. Larvae are pale green caterpillar-like grubs that feed on dock and sorrel leaves.
Did You Know?
In North America, dock sawfly larvae sometimes bore into apples to pupate, making them a nuisance pest in orchards despite not actually feeding on the fruit.
How to Identify Dock Sawfly
Dock Sawfly (Ametastegia glabrata) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Tenthredinidae. Adults typically measure 5-7 mm.
Dock Sawfly Habitat
Dock Sawfly is found in farmland 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.
Dock Sawfly Diet and Feeding
Dock Sawfly is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.
Where Is Dock Sawfly Found?
Dock Sawfly can be found in Europe, introduced to North America, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Dock Sawfly can be found
Is Dock Sawfly Dangerous?
Dock 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.
Dock Sawfly Role in Nature
Dock 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 Dock Sawfly
What does Dock Sawfly look like?
The Dock Sawfly typically measures 5-7 mm.
Where is Dock Sawfly found?
The Dock Sawfly is found in Europe, introduced to North America and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Dock Sawfly eat?
The Dock Sawfly feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Dock Sawfly dangerous to humans?
The Dock 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 Dock Sawfly?
In North America, dock sawfly larvae sometimes bore into apples to pupate, making them a nuisance pest in orchards despite not actually feeding on the fruit.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Dock Sawfly (Ametastegia glabrata). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/dock-sawfly
MLA:
"Dock Sawfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/dock-sawfly.