About Oak Slug Sawfly
A slug-like sawfly larva that skeletonizes oak leaves in North America. Severe infestations cause browning of the canopy by midsummer.
Did You Know?
The slimy larval coating deters most predators except for a few specialized parasitoid wasps.
How to Identify Oak Slug Sawfly
Oak Slug Sawfly (Caliroa quercuscoccineae) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Tenthredinidae. Adults typically measure 4-5 mm (adult).
Oak Slug Sawfly Habitat
Oak Slug Sawfly is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Oak Slug Sawfly Diet and Feeding
Oak Slug 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 Oak Slug Sawfly Found?
Oak Slug Sawfly can be found in North America, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Oak Slug Sawfly can be found
Is Oak Slug Sawfly Dangerous?
Oak Slug 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.
Oak Slug Sawfly Role in Nature
Oak Slug 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 Oak Slug Sawfly
What does Oak Slug Sawfly look like?
The Oak Slug Sawfly typically measures 4-5 mm (adult).
Where is Oak Slug Sawfly found?
The Oak Slug Sawfly is found in North America and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Oak Slug Sawfly eat?
The Oak Slug Sawfly feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Oak Slug Sawfly dangerous to humans?
The Oak Slug Sawfly belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
Is Oak Slug Sawfly endangered?
The Oak Slug Sawfly is currently classified as Not Evaluated by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Oak Slug Sawfly?
The slimy larval coating deters most predators except for a few specialized parasitoid wasps.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Oak Slug Sawfly (Caliroa quercuscoccineae). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/oak-slug-sawfly
MLA:
"Oak Slug Sawfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/oak-slug-sawfly.