Pine-tree Lappet vs Grass Sawfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pine-tree Lappet Grass Sawfly
Scientific Name Dendrolimus pini Pachynematus clitellatus
Order Lepidoptera Hymenoptera
Family Lasiocampidae Tenthredinidae
Size 50-80 mm wingspan 5-7 mm
Habitat Forests Meadows
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe, Asia Europe, Northern Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pine-tree Lappet

A large moth that can be a devastating forest pest, with caterpillars capable of completely defoliating pine forests across Eurasia. Major outbreaks are cyclical and can last several years.

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Did You Know?

During outbreak years, caterpillars can strip entire pine forests bare, causing economic losses of millions of dollars.

Grass Sawfly

A small, inconspicuous greenish sawfly associated with grasses. Larvae are smooth, pale green and feed on various meadow grasses.

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Did You Know?

Grass-feeding sawflies are among the least studied groups of Symphyta despite being common and widespread in grassland ecosystems.