North American Elm Sawfly
ExploreInsects
North American Elm Sawfly
Cimbex americanus
The North American Elm Sawfly is a small insect that loves to munch on elm tree leaves. They have a unique look with bright colors and can be found in many gardens and parks.
Habitat: Forests
Appearance
The North American Elm Sawfly is a large, stout-bodied insect resembling a wasp, but without the narrow 'waist'. It has a black head and thorax, with a striking yellowish-white abdomen marked with black bands or spots. Its wings are typically smoky brown, which distinguishes it from many true wasps.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHymenopteraFamilyCimbicidaeGenusCimbex
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Wow! Adults drink flower nectar, but the larvae are leaf-munching machines!
Wow! Their chunky larvae look like caterpillars but have extra belly legs!
Wow! This big 'wasp' won't sting you, it's actually a sawfly!
Wow! When threatened, the larvae can curl into a tight 'C' shape!
Special abilities
Ability
Leaf Saw
North American Elm Sawfly females have a serrated ovipositor that helps them cut precise slits into elm leaves to lay eggs securely.
Ability
Stinky Shield
North American Elm Sawfly larvae can release a foul-smelling green liquid that helps them deter birds and other predators.
Ability
Elm Leaf Gobbler
North American Elm Sawfly larvae have powerful mouthparts that help them rapidly chew and consume large quantities of elm leaves.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 30-45 mm
- Size
- 18-25 mm
- Lifespan
- 200-365 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adults sip nectar; larvae munch on elm leaves.
Age differences: Larvae exclusively feed on elm leaves, while adults consume nectar and pollen from various flowers.
Primary Foods
- elm leaves
- nectar
- pollen
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
It's best to watch these insects from a distance and not touch them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is North American Elm Sawfly's wingspan?
30-45 mm
How big is North American Elm Sawfly?
18-25 mm
How long does North American Elm Sawfly live?
200-365 days
What does North American Elm Sawfly eat?
Adults sip nectar; larvae munch on elm leaves.
Where is North American Elm Sawfly usually found?
Forests
How does North American Elm Sawfly hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does North American Elm Sawfly have?
6
Snap Map
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