Evolution Can’t Digest This Fly

Creation Moments on Oneplace.com · Aug 21, 2026 · 1m

Conifers aren't bothered by too many insect pests. That's because the oils that give them that nice pine scent are poisonous. They would be poisonous to the conifer sawfly larva if it digested them, too. But while it munches the pine needles, its body is busy storing the poisonous oils for future defense. The fact that the sawfly not only eats pine needles, but also uses the poisonous oils for defense poses a difficult problem for evolution which appears to have no solution.The sawfly larva's unique ability makes it a serious conifer pest both in North America and Europe. Part of the larva's…