Catochini

Catochini

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catochini: //kæˈtɒkɪnaɪ//

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

Summary

Catochini is a tribe within the Cecidomyiidae family of gall midges, characterized by their small size, distinctive wing structures, and unique reproductive strategies involving plant galls. They have significant ecological roles and some are important pests in agriculture.

Physical Characteristics

Cecidomyiidae are minute to small flies measuring 0.5–3.0 mm in length, rarely larger, with delicate appearances. They have long antennae with 12–14 segments and wings that are usually clear, rarely patterned, and bear microtrichia. Larvae are often orange or yellow in color due to carotenoids, and gall midges can synthesize carotenoids.

Identification Tips

Look for their small size (usually under 3 mm), hairy wings, and long segmented antennae. Species may vary in the appearance of their mouthparts and the presence of whorls of hairs on the antennal segments.

Habitat

Cecidomyiidae are commonly found in various habitats where host plants are located, particularly in association with plants they induce galls on.

Distribution

More than 6,650 species of Cecidomyiidae are described globally, with studies suggesting over 1 million species exist worldwide. They are prominent in diverse ecosystems across continents, indicating wide distribution.

Diet

Larvae primarily feed within plant tissues, causing galls, and are specialized to their host plants. Adults may feed on nectar or are non-feeding as adults in some cases.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes the larva, pupa, and adult stages, with unique reproductive strategies such as paedogenesis in some species. The larvae often develop within plant galls.

Reproduction

Typical reproduction involves the female laying eggs within or on host plants, leading to gall formation where larvae mature. In some species, larval reproduction occurs without prior maturation.

Predators

Natural enemies include various parasitoids like Braconidae and Eulophidae, which target Cecidomyiidae at different life stages.

Ecosystem Role

Cecidomyiidae play significant roles in ecosystems as herbivores that induce galls on plants and as prey for various predators. Some species are also natural biological control agents against pest insects.

Economic Impact

Certain species, like the Hessian fly and the wheat blossom midge, are significant agricultural pests that can cause considerable damage to crops, influencing agricultural practices and economic stability.

Collecting Methods

  • Malaise traps
  • Hand collection from host plants
  • Sweep netting

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinned specimens
  • Drying

Evolution

Cecidomyiidae have evolved numerous adaptations to exploit various plant hosts, including unique reproductive strategies and larval development within plant tissues that result in the formation of galls.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Cecidomyiidae are sometimes confused with other small flies due to their size but can be distinguished by specific wing and antenna structures.

Tags

  • Cecidomyiidae
  • gall midges
  • plant pests
  • insect diversity