Calycomyza promissa
(Frick, 1956)
Calycomyza promissa is a leaf-mining in the . The develop within leaves of various aster (Symphyotrichum), creating distinctive feeding tunnels. It occurs in Canada and the United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Calycomyza promissa: //ˌkæ.lɪ.koʊˈmaɪ.zə prəˈmɪs.ə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
of Calycomyza are small, typically 1.5–3 mm in length, with reduced characteristic of . Larval mines appear as pale, winding trails or blotches on leaf surfaces, often with visible as dark specks. Specific identification of adults requires examination of male ; the species is distinguished from by subtle differences in aedeagal structure.
Distribution
Canada, United States.
Diet
feed internally on leaf tissue of Symphyotrichum . Known include Symphyotrichum ascendens, S. chilense, S. drummondii, S. ericoides, S. lateriflorum, S. oolentangiense, S. pilosum, S. praealtum, and S. puniceum.
Host Associations
- Symphyotrichum ascendens - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum chilense - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum drummondii - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum ericoides - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum lateriflorum - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum oolentangiense - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum pilosum - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum praealtum - leaf tissue consumed by
- Symphyotrichum puniceum - leaf tissue consumed by
Behavior
are , feeding between the upper and lower leaf . Mining activity creates visible trails or blotches that expand as larvae grow.
Ecological Role
As a on Symphyotrichum , this contributes to natural leaf damage in aster . Its mining activity may increase leaf desiccation and affect photosynthetic capacity, though population-level impacts have not been quantified.
Similar Taxa
- Other Calycomyza speciesMany also mine asteraceous plants; accurate identification requires microscopic examination of male and detailed records.
- Phytomyza speciesRelated with similar habits on Asteraceae; distinguished by patterns and larval .
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described by Frick in 1956, this has been maintained in the Calycomyza based on morphological and biological characteristics.
Observation frequency
iNaturalist records indicate over 500 observations, suggesting this is relatively frequently encountered where its plants occur.