Bud gall midges

Asphondylia

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Infraorder: Bibionomorpha
Superfamily: Sciaroidea
Family: Cecidomyiidae
Subfamily: Cecidomyiinae
Supertribe: Cecidomyiidi
Tribe: Asphondyliini
Genus: Asphondylia

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Asphondylia: //æs.fɒnˈdɪl.jə//

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Summary

Asphondylia is a diverse genus of gall midges known for inducing galls on flowers and flower buds of many plants. The genus exhibits significant host specificity and ecological importance.

Physical Characteristics

Needle-like ovipositor nearly as long as the abdomen, composed of chitin.

Identification Tips

Species can often be distinguished by characteristics of the larvae and pupae. The shape and placement of galls, along with the identity of the host plant, can help identify the species.

Habitat

Primarily associated with plant galls in various ecosystems where their host plants are found.

Distribution

Cosmopolitan; over 300 described species, especially diverse in the southern hemisphere.

Diet

Larvae feed within galls formed on their host plants.

Life Cycle

Galls are induced on flower buds and other plant parts where larvae develop.

Reproduction

Gall formation occurs through the ovipositor inserting eggs into plant tissues, leading to gall development and larval growth.

Predators

Natural predators include various arthropod species and birds that may feed on larval stages or adults.

Ecosystem Role

Asphondylia species play a role in plant ecology through gall formation, interacting with plant communities and associated fungi.

Economic Impact

Some species are of economic importance, affecting fruiting and causing damage to crops.

Collecting Methods

Sweeping the vegetation where host plants are found
Using sticky traps to capture adults
Inspecting galls on plants for larvae and pupae

Preservation Methods

Pinning specimens to display their morphological features
Storing in alcohol for DNA analysis

Evolution

The genus has undergone radiation on particular plant genera, indicating a close relationship with specific hosts.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Asphondylia galls as harmful to all plants, while galls can sometimes benefit plant health or biodiversity.