Asphondylia atriplicis

(Townsend, 1893)

Tumor Stem Gall Midge

atriplicis is a in the that induces distinctive tumor-like stem on plants in the Atriplex (saltbushes). Like other Asphondylia , the female into tissue, and the developing stimulates the plant to form a protective gall structure that provides both shelter and nutrition. The specific epithet 'atriplicis' indicates its association with Atriplex hosts. The genus Asphondylia is notable for inducing galls on diverse plant families and for often harboring symbiotic that may assist in gall formation or nutrition.

Asphondylia atriplicis by (c) Millie Basden, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Millie Basden. Used under a CC-BY license.Asphondylia atriplicis by (c) Elliott Gordon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Elliott Gordon. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Asphondylia atriplicis: /æsˌfɒnˈdɪliə æˈtrɪplɪs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Habitat

Associated with Atriplex (saltbush) , which typically grow in saline, alkaline, or disturbed soils including coastal areas, salt flats, desert washes, and agricultural fields. The 's is thus tied to the distribution of its plants in arid and semi-arid environments.

Distribution

Known from western North America; the locality and primary distribution corresponds to regions where Atriplex are or naturalized, including the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexico. Specific documented localities require further verification.

Diet

The feeds on tissue within the it induces on Atriplex stems. The exact nutritional relationship—whether the larva feeds directly on plant tissue, on fungal cultured within the gall, or both—has not been definitively established for this .

Host Associations

  • Atriplex - on stems; specific within the not definitively documented.The specific epithet 'atriplicis' indicates association with this .

Life Cycle

females into developing Atriplex stems. Larval feeding induces formation of a tumor-like stem . develop within the gall, pupate, and emerge as adults. The number of per year and stage are not documented.

Behavior

Induces distinct tumor-like on stems. The gall structure provides physical protection and a food source for the developing .

Ecological Role

As a inducer, modifies growth and resource allocation. The galls may serve as microhabitats for other organisms (, ) though specific associates for this are not documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Asphondylia ilicicolaBoth are that induce on reproductive structures, but A. ilicicola specifically targets Ilex (holly) berries rather than Atriplex stems.
  • Other Asphondylia species on AtriplexMultiple may occur on Atriplex; distinguishing features of and require examination.

Tags

Sources and further reading