Rhopalomyia chrysothamni

Felt, 1916

chrysanthemum gall midge

A gall midge in the Cecidomyiidae that induces small, conical-tubular stem galls on rubber rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa, formerly Chrysothamnus nauseosus). Research demonstrates that female attack rates and gall development are strongly influenced by plant water and nutrient availability, with a documented trade-off between gall quantity and quality.

Report of the State Entomologist on injurious and other insects of the state of New York (1917) (14783990182) by New York (State). State Entomologist; Felt, Ephriam Porter, 1868-1943. Key to American insect galls. Used under a No restrictions license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Rhopalomyia chrysothamni: /ˌroʊ.pəˈloʊ.miˌa ˌkrɪ.soʊˈθæm.naɪ/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Induces very small, conical-tubular stem galls on rubber rabbitbrush; galls may vary in and depending on plant growing conditions.

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Habitat

Xeric areas in western North America; occurs in undisturbed arid environments. plants in more mesic conditions (with supplemental water and nutrients) support larger gall development.

Distribution

Western North America; documented in Coconino National Forest, Arizona, USA.

Host Associations

  • Ericameria nauseosa - gall inductionFormerly Chrysothamnus nauseosus; induces stem galls. Study specifically on hololeucus.

Behavior

Females preferentially attack plants with lower hydric-nutritional quality (xeric conditions). Gall and increase when water and nutrient stresses are relieved, creating a trade-off between attack rate (quantity) and gall size (quality).

Ecological Role

Gall inducer on rubber rabbitbrush; modifies plant stem tissue for larval development.

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Sources and further reading