Definition & Bedeutung von "sawfly"

What is a "sawfly"?

A sawfly is a type of flying insect that resembles a wasp or bee but lacks a stinger, with females having a saw-like ovipositor used for laying eggs on plants. They are known for their plant-feeding habits and can cause damage to various vegetation, making them a significant concern for gardeners and farmers. Sawflies undergo complete metamorphosis, with larvae resembling caterpillars and feeding on leaves, while adults primarily feed on nectar and pollen. Despite their name and appearance, sawflies are not closely related to true flies and belong to their own distinct insect group.