Alycaulini
Rübsaamen & Hedicke, 1926
Alycaulini is a tribe of in the , Lasiopterinae. The tribe contains approximately 20 and at least 200 described . Members are small known for inducing .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Alycaulini: /ˌælaɪˈkɔːlɪnaɪ/
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Identification
Alycaulini are distinguished from other tribes primarily by larval and morphological characters, including features of the , , and larval mouthparts. Definitive identification requires examination of genitalic structures and is typically performed by in .
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Habitat
are determined by associations; members occur wherever their host plants grow.
Distribution
Worldwide distribution corresponding to the ranges of .
Life Cycle
follows the typical pattern: are deposited on tissue, induce formation and feed within plant tissue, occurs either within the gall or in soil, and are short-lived. Specific details vary by and host plant.
Ecological Role
act as inducers, causing abnormal growth that provides shelter and food. This interaction represents a specialized form of plant- relationship.
Human Relevance
Most have minimal direct economic impact. Some may affect ornamental or plants through formation, though specific pest status of individual species is poorly documented.
Similar Taxa
- CecidomyiiniAnother tribe in ; distinguished by differences in , antennal structure, and larval
- LasiopteriniTribe within the same Lasiopterinae; separation based on subtle morphological differences in and larval characters
More Details
Taxonomic Note
Catalogue of Life lists Alycaulini as a synonym of rank, but this appears to be an error; NCBI, ITIS, and literature recognize it as a valid tribe within Lasiopterinae.
Research Status
The group is understudied relative to its diversity; many await description and relationships remain unknown for numerous .