Pine catkin sawflies, Xyela spp. (4, 22, 30)

BIOLOGY. - The pine catkin sawflies have one generation per year. Adults emerge from pupae in the soil (December-February in northern Florida) and lay their eggs in male flower (catkin) buds of pines. The larvae feed within the male flowers on pollen. Larval development is synchronized with maturation of male flowers, and the larvae drop to the ground during pollen shed, remain dormant in the soil until winter, then pupate. Pine catkin sawfly species include Xyela bakeri Konow, X. minor Norton, X. obscura (Strobl), and probably X dodgei Greenbaum.

INSECT IDENTIFICATION. -The larvae are commonly observed in pollen extracted for pine breeding work. They are small white grubs 3 to 5 mm long. The adults are about 3 mm long but are seldom seen.

DAMAGE IDENTIFICATION. - Infested male flowers are often distorted and bear small white spots of dried resin on the surface.

IMPORTANCE. - Larval damage undoubtedly reduces the amount of viable pollen; however, this loss is usually tolerable. Effect on viability of stored pollen has not yet been studied.

Larvae emerging from drying pine catkins. (4X)