Common name : Hessian fly
Scientific name : Mayetiola destructor
Family : Cecidomyiidae
Native to : Asia
Interesting fact : A huge pest for wheat, barley and rye crops, this insect is considered to be extremely harmful. 4 mm long, the Hessian fly usually attacks the stem of the above-mentioned crops. However, if it is extremely hungry it does not care which part of the plant it is attacking. A female Hessian fly can lay about 250-300 crops twice a year. The eggs are laid on the stem, and once they hatch they feed on the sap, weakening the plants.
