Olliffiella cristicola
Cockerell, 1896
Gall Kermes
Olliffiella cristicola, commonly known as the gall kermes, is a of insect in the Kermesidae. The species forms gall-like structures on plants, a distinctive trait among kermes scales. It was described by Theodore Dru Alison Cockerell in 1896 and is known from the United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Olliffiella cristicola: /ɔˈlɪfiˌɛl.lə ˌkrɪ.stɪˈkoʊ.lə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other kermes scales by its gall-inducing habit; most Kermesidae do not form true galls. The specific epithet 'cristicola' references this gall-forming . Further diagnostic features for field identification are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
United States of America; North America.
Diet
Phloem-feeding, as is characteristic of Sternorrhyncha; specific plant associations are not documented.
Behavior
Forms gall-like structures on plants, a that is atypical for the Kermesidae.
Similar Taxa
- Kermes spp.Other in Kermesidae lack the gall-forming habit that characterizes Olliffiella cristicola; they instead form waxy coverings or protective tests.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Olliffiella was established to accommodate gall-forming kermes scales, separating them from non-gall-forming Kermes. Only two are recognized in the genus.