Phylloxera symmetrica
Pergande, 1904
Phylloxera symmetrica is a gall-forming insect in the Phylloxeridae, closely related to aphids. Like other phylloxerans, this induces abnormal plant growths (galls) on plants through chemical secretions that manipulate plant development. The species was described by Pergande in 1904. Members of the Phylloxera are known for complex involving both sexual and , with and multiple gall-forming generations per year.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phylloxera symmetrica: //fɪˈlɒksərə sɪˈmɛtrɪkə//
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Similar Taxa
- Phylloxera caryaecaulisBoth are phylloxeran that form galls on Carya (hickory) species; P. caryaecaulis is specifically documented on shagbark and mockernut hickory, while P. symmetrica may occur on related
- Phylloxera devastatrixAnother pecan/gall-forming phylloxeran with similar and appearance; distinguished by gall and specificity
- Phylloxera notabilisCongeneric with similar gall-inducing on hickory and pecan; precise identification requires examination of gall structure and microscopic features
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Insects and mites that feed on leaves - AgriLife Extension Entomology
- Managing Insect and Mite Pests of Commercial Pecans in Texas - AgriLife Extension Entomology
- Gall darn it! Gall insects on hickory, oak, and elm, Phylloxera caryaecaulis, Andricus palustris, Colopha ulmicola — Bug of the Week
- The Insects Behind the Weird Growths on Plants
- How Some Insects Turn Plants Into Pollution Detectors
- Rice Root Aphid: An Insect Surprise on Indoor-Grown Cannabis