Celticecis ramicola

Distinguishable from other Celticecis species by gall morphology and location on host plant branches. Adult midges are minute, delicate flies with reduced wing venation characteristic of Cecidomyiidae. Specific diagnostic features separating C. ramicola from congeners require examination of gall structure on Celtis branches and adult genitalia. Identification generally depends on association with distinctive branch galls on hackberry.

Associated with Celtis (hackberry) host plants in environments where these trees and shrubs occur, including woodlands, riparian corridors, and urban plantings.

Distribution corresponds to ranges of Celtis host species in North America; precise range limits undocumented due to recent description.

Larval stages feed on plant tissue within galls induced on Celtis branches. Adults do not feed.

• Celtis - gall inducerSpecific host species within genus Celtis not documented

Develops through complete metamorphosis with egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Larvae form galls within hackberry branch tissue. Pupation occurs within galls or in soil. Adult emergence timing undocumented.

Acts as a gall inducer on hackberry branches, creating localized plant tissue modifications that may provide microhabitat for other organisms. Serves as prey for parasitoid wasps and other natural enemies.

No documented economic or medical significance. May be encountered by botanists and entomologists studying hackberry-associated insects.

• Celticecis spiniformisAlso induces galls on Celtis; distinguished by gall morphology (C. spiniformis produces spine-like galls on leaves or twigs versus branch galls of C. ramicola)
• Celticecis ovataAnother Celtis gall midge; differs in gall shape and location on host plant

• gall midge
• Cecidomyiidae
• Celtis
• hackberry
• gall inducer
• branch gall

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• Catalogue of Life