Caryomyia tubicola
(Osten Sacken, 1862)
Hickory Bullet Gall Midge
Caryomyia tubicola is a gall midge that induces distinctive bullet-shaped galls on hickory leaves. As a member of the Cecidomyiidae, it has a complex involving both sexual and parthenogenetic . The is primarily known from eastern North America, where it has been documented on Carya species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Caryomyia tubicola: //ˌkɛr.i.oʊˈmaɪ.ə ˌtuː.bɪˈkoʊ.lə//
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Identification
The bullet-shaped galls on hickory leaves are diagnostic for this . The galls are small, elongated, and pointed, resembling miniature bullets. are minute flies with reduced wing venation characteristic of Cecidomyiidae.
Images
Habitat
Associated with hickory trees (Carya spp.) in deciduous forest environments.
Distribution
Eastern North America. Documented from Vermont and other parts of the United States.
Host Associations
- Carya - induces galls on leaveshickory
Ecological Role
Gall inducer that manipulates plant tissue to form protective structures for larval development.
Similar Taxa
- Other Caryomyia speciesAlso form galls on Carya, but gall differs; C. tubicola produces bullet-shaped galls while produce distinct gall types.