Neodiprion

All species of Neodiprion are found in North America. The only Palaearctic species, N. sertifer, was accidentally introduced. In North America, representatives of this genus are found as far south as El Salvador. Neodiprion contains most of the destructive species of Diprionidae in North America. Damage is caused by larval defoliation of valuable timber species in forest stands, plantations, and ornamental plantings. Outbreaks occur sporadically, sometimes over extensive areas and result in loss of growth and occasionally tree mortality. Life cycles differ between species. In general, oviposition is in the needles of the host and the larvae feed gregariously at first but later spread out in search of new food. Feeding may be on the new or old growth, or both. Mature larvae go into the ground and spin a tough, papery cocoon in which they pupate. Overwintering is either as an egg in the foliage or in a cocoon in the ground, and there may be from one to five generations per year depending on the species and climate. ~The taxonomy of this genus is based on female genitalia, though in many cases it is necessary to have larvae and accompanying biological data for correct determination. Determination of a single stage is sometimes not possible. Characters have not been found for separation of males. A number of confusing species complexes remain to be studied, and the listing below is not so clear-cut as it appears. Some complexes may represent a single species with a number of geographic or food plant races or may represent a number of separate species units. Complications arise when apparently similar larvae produce different adults and different larvae produce similar adults. Further taxonomic work on Neodiprion will have to involve studies of all stages and biologies of each form from different parts of their ranges. Those who encounter Neodiprion in the field are urged to rear adults, keep associated larvae of each instar, and take notes on their life cycles.

Neodiprion is a genus of sawflies in the family Diprionidae.