Lasiopterini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lasiopterini: /ˌlæsiːˌɒptəˈraɪnaɪ/

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Summary

Lasiopterini is a tribe of gall midges within the family Cecidomyiidae, with a broad distribution but primarily Old World prevalence. The larvae induce galls on various plant tissues, and some species are important pests of agriculture.

Physical Characteristics

Cecidomyiidae are minute to small (0.5–3.0 mm), fragile flies with long antennae consisting of 12–14 segments. They possess clear wings, often with microtrichia, and only specific veins are well developed. The body color is usually orange or yellow due to carotenoids.

Identification Tips

Look for small, fragile flies usually measuring less than 3 mm in length. They have hairy wings, long antennae, and their larvae are often responsible for galls on plants.

Habitat

Cecidomyiidae are commonly found in various plant habitats as their larvae are associated with plant tissues, forming galls.

Distribution

This tribe is chiefly found in the Old World, with 330 known species, of which only 37 are native to North America; none are known from South America.

Diet

The larvae primarily feed within plant tissues, creating growth abnormalities known as galls.

Life Cycle

Cecidomyiidae undergo complete metamorphosis, including egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. Larvae are usually peripneustic, and pupae are typically exarate.

Reproduction

Some species exhibit paedogenesis, allowing larvae to reproduce without maturing. In such cases, daughter larvae may consume the mother.

Predators

Gall midge larvae are preyed upon by various parasitoids including Braconidae, Eurytomidae, and others.

Ecosystem Role

Cecidomyiidae can act both as pests and as natural enemies of other crop pests, some larvae are predatory.

Economic Impact

Several species are economically significant pests, damaging crops such as wheat, rice, and legumes.

Evolution

Cecidomyiidae are believed to have evolved with significant diversification, with current estimates suggesting over 1 million species globally based on DNA studies.

Misconceptions

Although they are primarily known as pests, many species also serve beneficial roles in controlling other pest populations.

Tags

• Lasiopterini
• Cecidomyiidae
• gall midges
• pests
• insects