- Abia sericea, commonly known as the club-horned sawfly or scabious sawfly, is a striking insect species belonging to the family Cimbicidae. Native to Europe, this sawfly is often found in wet meadows and forests, where it thrives in proximity to its host plants. Its metallic sheen and distinctive features make it a fascinating subject for entomologists and nature enthusiasts alike.
- It moves with deliberate precision across the foliage, its metallic green-golden or bronze abdomen shimmering in the sunlight. Measuring about 10–12 millimeters in length, Abia sericea is a medium-sized sawfly with a robust body and transparent wings adorned with brown markings.
- The club-horned sawfly’s most striking features include its reddish-yellow antennae, which resemble clubs, and its slightly hairy thorax with a bluish sheen. Its legs are yellow, with black thighs at their base, adding to its vibrant appearance. Larvae of this species are equally distinctive, with sandy-colored bodies marked by black and yellow spots.
- Abia sericea is oligophagous, meaning it feeds on a narrow range of plants. Adults are often seen feeding on nectar from Devil’s-bit Scabious (Succisa pratensis), Field Scabious (Knautia arvensis), and other related species. Larvae feed on the leaves of these plants, playing a role in their ecosystems by cycling nutrients and serving as prey for other organisms.
- The life cycle of Abia sericea is closely tied to its host plants. Adults are active from May to October, while larvae are most commonly observed between June and September. Females lay eggs on the leaves of host plants, where larvae hatch and feed before pupating. This species is solitary, with individuals often seen resting or feeding on flowers.
- Although not endangered, Abia sericea faces challenges from habitat loss and changes in land use. Its reliance on specific host plants makes it vulnerable to environmental changes. Conservation efforts focus on preserving wet meadows and forests to ensure the survival of this beautiful sawfly.
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