Dicrodiplosis californica
Felt, 1912
mealybug-destroying predaceous gall midge
Dicrodiplosis californica is a of gall midge in the Cecidomyiidae, described by Felt in 1912. The 'mealybug-destroying predaceous gall midge' indicates its role as a agent targeting mealybugs. As a member of the Dicrodiplosis, it belongs to a group of predatory gall midges rather than the gall-forming majority in this family.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dicrodiplosis californica: /ˌdaɪkroʊdɪˈpləʊsɪs ˌkælɪˈfɔːrnɪkə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
California (implied by specific epithet and usage), though precise distribution records are not documented in available sources.
Diet
Preys on mealybugs (Pseudococcidae), as indicated by the 'mealybug-destroying gall midge'.
Ecological Role
of mealybugs; functions as a natural enemy in agricultural and natural , potentially contributing to of pest .
Human Relevance
Used or considered for of mealybug pests in agricultural settings.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- Catalogue of Life
- The Big 43: The California Native Plants, Plus One, Studied in UC Davis Research | Bug Squad
- Bohart Museum: Learn about California's State Insect on UC Davis Picnic Day | Bug Squad
- A Mural Like No Other | Bug Squad
- A Flash of Orange: Welcome, California Tortoiseshell! | Bug Squad
- California Dogface Butterfly: What the Fire Did | Bug Squad
- Bembicid Holdings | Entomology Research Museum