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Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly

Pontania proxima

About Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly

A tiny sawfly that induces distinctive bean-shaped galls on the leaves of various willow species. Each gall contains a single larva feeding on internal gall tissue.

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Did You Know?

The gall-inducing chemicals secreted by the larva redirect the plant's growth to create a nutrient-rich chamber specifically for the larva's benefit.

How to Identify Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly

Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly (Pontania proxima) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Tenthredinidae. Adults typically measure 3-5 mm.

Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly Habitat

Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly is found in wetlands habitats, particularly across Europe, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly Diet and Feeding

Willow Bean-Gall 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 Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly Found?

Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly can be found in Europe, Western Asia, where it inhabits wetlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly can be found

Is Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly Dangerous?

Willow Bean-Gall 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.

Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly Role in Nature

Willow Bean-Gall 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

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly

What does Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly look like?

The Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly typically measures 3-5 mm.

Where is Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly found?

The Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly is found in Europe, Western Asia and typically inhabits wetlands environments.

What does Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly eat?

The Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.

Is Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly dangerous to humans?

The Willow Bean-Gall 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 Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly?

The gall-inducing chemicals secreted by the larva redirect the plant's growth to create a nutrient-rich chamber specifically for the larva's benefit.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly (Pontania proxima). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/willow-bean-gall-sawfly

MLA:
"Willow Bean-Gall Sawfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/willow-bean-gall-sawfly.