Valentibulla californica

(Coquillett, 1894)

Elliptical Stem Gall Fly

Valentibulla californica is a of fruit fly in the Tephritidae, commonly known as the Elliptical Stem Gall Fly. The species was described by Coquillett in 1894. Like other members of the Valentibulla, it is associated with gall formation on plant stems. The species is found in the United States, particularly in California as suggested by its specific epithet.

Valentibulla californica by no rights reserved, uploaded by Jesse Rorabaugh. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Valentibulla californica: //væˌlɛntɪˈbʊlə ˌkælɪˈfɔrnɪkə//

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Distribution

United States, with records from California.

Host Associations

Asteraceae - gall inductionMembers of the Valentibulla are known to induce galls on Asteraceae; specific plants for V. californica are not documented in available sources.

Ecological Role

Gall-forming insect; creates stem galls that may provide microhabitats for other organisms.

Similar Taxa

Other Valentibulla speciesSimilar gall-forming habits on Asteraceae; distinguished by specific gall and geographic distribution.

More Details

Taxonomic Notes

The Valentibulla belongs to the tribe Eurostini within the Tephritinae. in this genus are characterized by their association with stem gall formation on composite plants.