An invasive species of fly has been detected in Michigan.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) confirmed the first detection of elm zigzag sawfly in the state, located in St. Clair County.
Elm zigzag sawfly feeds on the leaves of elm trees, and can defoliate several elm species, according to state officials.
Although repeated defoliation can stress the trees, healthy elms can recover and produce new leaves.
The invasive species is native to Asia, and was first detected in Canada in 2020, and in Virginia in 2021. It has since been reported in several eastern and midwestern states.
Most people are likely to see the elm zigzag sawfly in its larval stage, when the yellow-green caterpillar-like larvae feed on elm trees. They grow to roughly 10-11 millimeters, and have a brown band on the head and dark T-shaped markings on its hind legs.
Elm zigzag sawfly larva feeding on leaf. (Gyorgy Scosa Hungary, Forest Research Institute, Bugwood.org/WWMT)
Adults are small, roughly 7-8 millimeters long with shiny black bodies, smoky wings, pale yellow to whiteish legs, and three-segmented antennae.
If you think you’ve spotted an elm zigzag sawfly, report it here. Be prepared to report the location of infested trees and take one or two photos of the infested branches.
Residents can help prevent the spread of invasive species by inspecting vehicles, outdoor equipment and recreational gear after traveling; by removing plant debris and soil from vehicles and outdoor equipment; and by not moving firewood and other potentially infested materials.
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More information on the elm zigzag sawfly can be found here.