Tenthredinidae

Tenthredinidae is a family of sawflies in the order Hymenoptera, suborder Symphyta. It is one of the most diverse groups within sawflies, with numerous genera and species distributed worldwide, especially in temperate regions.

Adults resemble wasps but lack the narrow petiole that characterizes many other Hymenoptera. They typically have two pairs of transparent wings and a broad thorax, with the abdomen broadly attached to the thorax. Larvae are legged and resemble caterpillars, a hallmark of the group.

Larvae feed on a wide range of deciduous plants, including trees and shrubs. They are usually leaf feeders, and some species cause noticeable defoliation in forests, orchards, or landscaping. The life cycle varies by species, with egg, larval, and pupal stages occurring in a single year or spanning multiple years.

Ecology and distribution: Found worldwide, with greatest diversity in temperate zones. Several species are important pests of fruit trees and ornamental plants, while others have minor or specialized roles in forest ecosystems. Natural enemies, such as birds and parasitic wasps, regulate populations.

Notable genera include Tenthredo, Nematus, Hoplocampa, and Caliroa. Taxonomic revisions have moved some former members to other families, but Tenthredinidae remains a key reference point for many leaf-feeding sawflies. The group is of interest to entomologists and horticulturists due to its pest potential and ecological roles.