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Grass Sawfly

Pachynematus clitellatus

About Grass Sawfly

A small, inconspicuous greenish sawfly associated with grasses. Larvae are smooth, pale green and feed on various meadow grasses.

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Did You Know?

Grass-feeding sawflies are among the least studied groups of Symphyta despite being common and widespread in grassland ecosystems.

How to Identify Grass Sawfly

Grass Sawfly (Pachynematus clitellatus) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Tenthredinidae. Adults typically measure 5-7 mm.

Grass Sawfly Habitat

Grass Sawfly is found in meadows habitats, particularly across Europe, Northern Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Grass Sawfly Diet and Feeding

Grass 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 Grass Sawfly Found?

Grass Sawfly can be found in Europe, Northern Asia, where it inhabits meadows environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Grass Sawfly can be found

Is Grass Sawfly Dangerous?

Grass 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.

Grass Sawfly Role in Nature

Grass 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

Jan
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Dec
Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Grass Sawfly

What does Grass Sawfly look like?

The Grass Sawfly typically measures 5-7 mm.

Where is Grass Sawfly found?

The Grass Sawfly is found in Europe, Northern Asia and typically inhabits meadows environments.

What does Grass Sawfly eat?

The Grass Sawfly feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.

Is Grass Sawfly dangerous to humans?

The Grass 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 Grass Sawfly?

Grass-feeding sawflies are among the least studied groups of Symphyta despite being common and widespread in grassland ecosystems.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Grass Sawfly (Pachynematus clitellatus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/grass-sawfly

MLA:
"Grass Sawfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/grass-sawfly.