Asteromyia gutierreziae
Felt, 1916
matchweed stem gout
Asteromyia gutierreziae is a gall midge in the Cecidomyiidae that induces galls on various plants in the Asteraceae family. The is black in color and measures approximately 3–5 mm in length. It has been documented on multiple plants including species of Gutierrezia, Baccharis, and related . The 'matchweed stem gout' reflects its association with matchweed plants and its gall-forming habit.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Asteromyia gutierreziae: //ˌæstəˈroʊmiə ˌɡʌtiəˈrɛtsiae//
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Identification
Small black cecidomyiid , 3–5 mm, associated with galls on Asteraceae . Distinguished from other Asteromyia by host plant associations and gall ; definitive identification requires examination of morphological characters described in Gagné (1968).
Habitat
Associated with plants in open, dry where Asteraceae shrubs occur, including desert and semi-arid environments.
Distribution
Documented from regions where plants occur, including Texas and southwestern United States, based on host plant ranges (Gutierrezia, Baccharis, and related ).
Host Associations
- Gutierrezia californica - gall inducer plant for gall formation
- Gutierrezia microcephala - gall inducer plant for gall formation
- Gutierrezia sarothrae - gall inducer plant for gall formation
- Baccharis angustifolia - gall inducer plant for gall formation
- Baccharis sarothroides - gall inducer plant for gall formation
- Gymnosperma glutinosum - gall inducer plant for gall formation
- Medranoa palmeri - gall inducer plant for gall formation; Texas Desert Goldenrod
Behavior
Induces gall formation on plant tissues including upper leaves, lower leaves, and stems.
Ecological Role
Gall inducer; modifies plant tissue development to create protected structures for larval development.
Similar Taxa
- Other Asteromyia speciesCongeneric may overlap in distribution and use; identification requires detailed morphological examination per Gagné (1968) revision
More Details
Taxonomic authority
Described by Felt in 1916; taxonomic revision by Gagné (1968) provides definitive treatment of Asteromyia