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Heterarthrus aceris

Sawfly Heterarthrus aceris

Description

Heterarthrus aceris is a leaf-mining sawfly that primarily infests Acer pseudoplatanus. The larvae develop within the leaf tissue, creating distinctive mines. This species is distributed across Central and Eastern Europe, as well as parts of the Caucasus. It has also been recorded in Scotland, Ireland, England, and Sweden. The damage caused by H. aceris is mostly aesthetic, with mined leaves turning brown and drying prematurely. In cases of high infestation levels, leaf loss can become significant, but it does not cause long-term harm to the host trees. The species prefers sycamore maple but has been occasionally found on other Acer species.

Symptom

The mines start as narrow, winding galleries that later expand into large blotches. Affected leaves develop pale or brownish discoloration, with mined areas eventually drying out.

Tree Species: Maple

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes