About Woolly Alder Sawfly
A small, dark sawfly whose larvae are covered in a white, woolly, waxy secretion. The larvae feed on the underside of alder leaves.
Did You Know?
The white waxy covering on the larva closely resembles woolly aphids, a possible case of defensive mimicry.
How to Identify Woolly Alder Sawfly
Woolly Alder Sawfly (Eriocampa ovata) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Tenthredinidae. Adults typically measure 5-7 mm.
Woolly Alder Sawfly Habitat
Woolly Alder Sawfly is found in rivers & streams 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.
Woolly Alder Sawfly Diet and Feeding
Woolly Alder 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 Woolly Alder Sawfly Found?
Woolly Alder Sawfly can be found in Europe, introduced to North America, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Woolly Alder Sawfly can be found
Is Woolly Alder Sawfly Dangerous?
Woolly Alder 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.
Woolly Alder Sawfly Role in Nature
Woolly Alder 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 Woolly Alder Sawfly
What does Woolly Alder Sawfly look like?
The Woolly Alder Sawfly typically measures 5-7 mm.
Where is Woolly Alder Sawfly found?
The Woolly Alder Sawfly is found in Europe, introduced to North America and typically inhabits rivers & streams environments.
What does Woolly Alder Sawfly eat?
The Woolly Alder Sawfly feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Woolly Alder Sawfly dangerous to humans?
The Woolly Alder 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 Woolly Alder Sawfly?
The white waxy covering on the larva closely resembles woolly aphids, a possible case of defensive mimicry.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Woolly Alder Sawfly (Eriocampa ovata). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/woolly-alder-sawfly
MLA:
"Woolly Alder Sawfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/woolly-alder-sawfly.