Carrion Parasitoid Wasp vs Silver Birch Web-Spinning Sawfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Carrion Parasitoid Wasp Silver Birch Web-Spinning Sawfly
Scientific Name Alysia manducator Pamphilius sylvaticus
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Braconidae Pamphiliidae
Size 4-6 mm 9-12 mm
Habitat Farmland Woodlands
Diet Carrion Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe, North America Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Carrion Parasitoid Wasp

A small braconid wasp that parasitizes blowfly larvae in carrion. An important part of the decomposition ecosystem. Females locate buried fly larvae using chemical cues.

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Did You Know?

Females can detect fly larvae buried in carrion from a considerable distance using their sensitive antennae.

Silver Birch Web-Spinning Sawfly

A flat-bodied sawfly with long filiform antennae and a broad head. Larvae roll or fold birch leaves with silk and feed within the shelters.

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Did You Know?

The flattened body shape of pamphiliid sawflies is an adaptation that allows adults to squeeze into tight spaces in leaf litter and bark crevices.