Mentz, Z. (2023, September 6). Invasive insect species infesting elm trees detected in Ohio for first time. Retrieved September 6th, 2023, from
The Elm Zigzag Sawfly a Invasive insect native to Asia, has shown up in Ohio for the first time. The distinguished fly was detected infesting elm trees, despite there being no recorded elm tree deaths caused by a Elm Zigzag Sawfly, the fly is still capable of notable defoliation, which poses a threat to the overall health of elm trees. So as a solution, The Northern research station will be monitoring the infestation of the fly.
Even if the Zigzag fly isn’t detrimental to Ohio’s ecosystem, it’s still an invasive species that aggravates the overall health of elm trees, which ultimately disrupts Ohio’s ecosystem. Though I believe that the situation is being handled accordingly and that enough effort is being put into solving this problem, yes it’s indeed an invasive species, but the fly is not going to pose any sort of alarming threat.
The Elm Zizag Sawfly is a very interesting invasive species because it doesn’t directly harm other species. However its presence is still alarming because it can pose a threat to the health of the elm trees. Do you think that this species will continue to cause issues despite the efforts being put in to stop it?
I never really considered that some invasive species could have so little impact. Are there any more harmful invasive species in Ohio that it could be more worthwhile to devote resources toward?
I was never aware of an impact that such a small creature could make. Is there any way to put a stop to the impacts they’re making without causing the fly to go extinct?