Cephidae
Cephidae is a family of sawflies within the Symphyta suborder of Hymenoptera (sawflies, wasps, bees, and ants). They are commonly known as stem sawflies because their larvae typically bore into the stems of grasses, reeds, and other similar plants.
Characteristics:
- Appearance: Adult cephids are typically slender and wasp-like in appearance, often black or metallic blue/green. They range in size depending on the species.
- Larvae: The larvae are legless, grub-like, and internal feeders within plant stems. They possess mandibles adapted for chewing plant tissue.
- Habitat: Cephids are found globally, with varying species inhabiting diverse climates and ecosystems wherever their host plants are present.
- Life Cycle: Cephids have a holometabolous life cycle, meaning they undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Females lay eggs inside plant stems. The larvae then feed and develop within the stem. Pupation occurs, usually within the stem as well. Adults emerge and reproduce, continuing the cycle.
- Economic Importance: Some cephid species can be economically significant pests of cereal crops such as wheat, rye, and barley, causing damage by weakening stems, leading to lodging (falling over), and reducing yields.
Classification:
The classification of Cephidae within the Hymenoptera has seen revisions over time. It is typically classified as follows:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Suborder: Symphyta
- Family: Cephidae
Genera:
The family Cephidae comprises several genera, including (but not limited to):
- Cephus
- Calameuta
- Janus
- Trachelus
- Hartigia
- Caenocephus
The specific genera and species within Cephidae are subject to ongoing taxonomic research and revisions.