Black sawfly

Systematic position: Dolerus collaris, commonly referred to as the black sawfly, belongs to the order Hymenoptera and the family Tenthredinidae. This species is recognized as an agricultural pest that primarily targets cereal crops, impacting productivity in various temperate climates.

Crops damaged: The primary hosts for this pest include winter and spring wheat, rye, and barley. In addition to cultivated fields, the sawfly can thrive on various wild grasses, which act as alternative food sources and refuges for the population during the early development stages of the season.

Biology and lifecycle: The life cycle typically begins in early spring. Adults emerge, and females deposit their eggs beneath the epidermis of cereal stems or leaves. The larvae emerge and start feeding on the host plants. As they complete their larval development, they move into the soil to pupate in earthen cells at a depth of several centimeters.

Damage and harmfulness: The larval stage is the most destructive phase. The larvae skeletonize leaves, creating irregular holes or longitudinal strips. This feeding activity reduces the overall photosynthetic capacity of the plant, which often leads to stunted growth and a significant decrease in grain yield, especially when infestation rates are high.

Protection measures: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential for controlling Dolerus collaris. Deep tillage is highly effective in disrupting the pupation stage and reducing the number of surviving adults for the next season. In cases of severe outbreaks, applying registered insecticides during the early vegetative stages of the crop can help manage population levels and minimize losses.