Caryomyia cucurbitata

Identified by the unique pumpkin-shaped galls on hickory leaves; galls are rounded, often with longitudinal ridges, and contain a single larval chamber. Adults require microscopic examination for definitive identification; separation from other Caryomyia species relies on antennal structure and genitalia morphology.

Adults are small, delicate flies typical of Cecidomyiidae, with reduced wing venation and bead-like antennae. Larvae are minute, legless, and maggot-like. The species is distinguished by the pumpkin-shaped galls it produces on host leaves.

Deciduous forests and woodlands where hickory trees (Carya spp.) occur. The species is tied to the presence of its host plants.

Eastern North America, corresponding to the range of hickory species. Specific distribution records are limited due to the species' recent description.

Adult emergence and gall formation occur during the growing season when hickory leaves are expanding; exact timing undocumented but presumed to align with spring leaf flush.

• Carya - gall inductionHost genus; specific hickory species unconfirmed

As a gall inducer, the species modifies host plant tissue to create protected larval chambers. This represents a parasitic relationship with the host plant. Galls may provide microhabitats for other organisms, though inquiline associations are undocumented for this species.

No documented economic or agricultural significance. The galls are occasionally noticed by naturalists and foresters but do not cause substantial tree damage.

• Caryomyia caryaecolaAlso induces galls on hickory; distinguished by gall morphology—C. caryaecola produces elongate, spindle-shaped galls rather than rounded pumpkin-shaped galls
• Caryomyia tubicolaAnother hickory gall midge; produces tubular or finger-like galls, contrasting with the rounded galls of C. cucurbitata

• gall midge
• Cecidomyiidae
• hickory
• Carya
• plant gall
• North America

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life