Peracecis fugitiva

Identification relies primarily on association with its distinctive leaf galls on hackberry and microscopic examination of adult morphology. Adults are small, delicate flies with reduced wing venation characteristic of Cecidomyiidae. The blister galls on hackberry leaves are raised, often rounded or irregular swellings on the leaf surface. Definitive species-level identification requires specialist taxonomic knowledge and reference to the original description.

Found in areas where host hackberry trees (Celtis species) occur, including riparian woodlands, forest edges, and urban plantings. Presence is tied directly to availability of host plants rather than specific habitat type.

Known from North America based on iNaturalist observations; precise native range unclear due to limited published distribution records. Observations span multiple U.S. states where hackberry occurs.

Adult emergence and gall formation likely coincide with hackberry leaf flush in spring, though specific timing undocumented in accessible literature.

• Celtis - Gall induction on leavesHackberry species; specific host species unconfirmed in accessible sources

As a gall inducer, modifies host plant tissue to create protected microhabitats for larval development. Galls may influence leaf physiology and provide food or shelter for other organisms, though specific ecological interactions undocumented.

Minor economic or aesthetic concern due to gall formation on ornamental hackberry trees. No significant pest status documented.

• Other Peracecis speciesSame genus, likely similar gall morphology on related hosts; requires specialist examination to distinguish
• Other Cecidomyiidae on CeltisMultiple gall midges attack hackberry; blister gall morphology helps distinguish from other gall types (e.g., nipple galls, spindle galls)

• gall midge
• Cecidomyiidae
• Celtis
• hackberry
• leaf gall
• North America

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life