Spiny Oak Sawfly

Dusky Birch Sawfly and Spiny Oak Sawfly larvae are appearing on their namesake hosts in southwest Ohio. They seldom cause significant injury to the overall health of their host trees; however, both can produce noticeable damage, drawing the attention of horticulture professionals and home gardeners.

The handiwork of the spiny oak sawfly (Periclista albicollis) is becoming very apparent on the developing leaves of bur and white oaks in southwest Ohio.  The small, light-green semi-transparent spiny oak sawfly larvae have shiny black head capsules and are covered with rows of forked (bifurcated) spines.  Early instars primarily feed on the underside of newly emerging and expanding leaves.  They produce small holes that get larger as the leaves expand.  Later instars consume interveinal tissue leaving behind the main veins to give the oak leaves a tattered appearance.  Look...