Notes on Current and Gooseberry Insects
Imported currantworm (currant sawfly)

Identification

Adult sawflies are nearly the size of a housefly, stout bodied with a dark head and thorax, and red-yellow abdomens. Sawflies are not actually flies but belong to a group of wasps. The term "sawfly" refers to the saw-like ovipositor, the structure used to insert eggs into plant material, on the female wasp. The larvae are green worms, similar in appearance to a caterpillar and blend in well with currant foliage.

Period of activity

Adults are active in May and June when they lay eggs on the underside of currant leaves. The larvae appear in great numbers at the green fruit stage and devour foliage just before fruit ripens. Bushes can be completely defoliated. The larvae pupate in the leaf litter. There are two generations each year, although only the first causes significant damage.

Monitoring

Check for signs of leaf feeding twice weekly as fruit develop. Gooseberries are especially susceptible..

Learn more...

• Notes on Current and Gooseberry Diseases and Insects
• OMAFRA Publication 360 Current and Gooseberry Calendar
• OMAFRA Publication 360 Fruit Production Recommendations
• OMAFRA Berry Crops Index page
  

| Top of Page |