What is the Difference Between Symphyta and Apocrita?

Symphyta and Apocrita are two suborders under the order Hymenoptera, which includes insects such as ants, bees, and wasps. The main differences between Symphyta and Apocrita are:

1. Waist Structure: Symphyta has a broad waist, while Apocrita has a narrow waist, which is also known as a "wasp waist".
2. Insect Types: Symphyta includes sawflies and horntails or wood wasps, which are considered primitive insects. Apocrita, on the other hand, includes more advanced insects like wasps, bees, and ants.
3. Feeding Habits: Most Symphyta species are phytophagous, meaning they feed on plants and can cause destruction to food crops. Apocrita species, however, typically feed on other arthropods.
4. Ovipositor: In Symphyta, the ovipositor is saw-like, which helps the females cut through plants to lay their eggs. In Apocrita, the ovipositor is modified into a stinger.
5. Social Organization: Most advanced Hymenoptera, like bees, ants, and wasps (Apocrita), have a well-developed social organization with a division of labor and cooperative care for broods. This level of social organization is not as prevalent in Symphyta species.
6. Presence of Cenchrus: Cenchrus, a structure that helps hold the wings when at rest, is present in Symphyta but absent in Apocrita.

Comparative Table: Symphyta vs Apocrita

Here is a table summarizing the differences between Symphyta and Apocrita, two suborders of the order Hymenoptera:

Both Symphyta and Apocrita are beneficial insects, serving as pollinators and natural enemies of insect pests. However, some species in Symphyta can be destructive to crops.