sawfly

Sawflies are insects belonging to the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees, wasps, and ants. Despite their common name, sawflies are not true flies. They are characterized by their stout bodies and a saw-like ovipositor in females, used for cutting into plant tissues to lay eggs.

There are thousands of species of sawflies, found worldwide. Their larvae typically resemble caterpillars, with multiple pairs of prolegs in addition to the true legs. These larvae are often herbivorous and can be significant pests in agriculture and forestry, as they feed on leaves, bark, or wood. Some species cause defoliation, while others bore into stems or fruits.

Adult sawflies vary greatly in size and appearance. They generally have two pairs of membranous wings and a distinct waist, unlike wasps and bees. Their diet as adults often consists of nectar, pollen, or honeydew. Sawflies play a role in pollination, although not as efficiently as bees.

The life cycle of a sawfly involves complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larval stage is typically the longest and most destructive. Pupation usually occurs in a cocoon, often in the soil or plant material. Identification of sawflies can be challenging due to their diversity and similarity to other insect groups.