Sawfly is the common name for
insects belonging to suborder
Symphyta of the order
Hymenoptera. Sawflies are distinguishable from most other hymenopterans by the broad connection between the
abdomen and the
thorax, and by their caterpillar-like larvae. The common name comes from the saw-like appearance of the
ovipositor, which the females use to cut into the plants where they lay their eggs. Large populations of certain sawfly species can cause substantial economic damage to forests and cultivated plants.