Hackberry Nipplegall Maker

Pachypsylla celtidismamma

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pachypsylla celtidismamma: //ˌpækiˈsɪlə sɛlˌtɪdɪsˈmæmə//

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

Images

Pachypsylla celtidismamma, galls closeup by Beatriz Moisset. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Pachypsylla P1140118b by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Hackberry Nipple Gall (Pachypsylla celtidismamma) - Kitchener, Ontario 02 by Ryan Hodnett. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Hackberry Nipplegall Maker by Wm3832. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Hackberry Nipple Galls (Pachypsylla celtidismamma) - Guelph, Ontario by Ryan Hodnett. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Pachypsylla P1140117a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Pachypsylla celtidismamma, also known as the hackberry nipplegall maker, is a small hemipteran that induces galls on hackberry leaves, affecting the host tree's health and growth.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are 3-4 mm in size, resemble small leafhoppers, mottled light brown with wings held tent-like over the back; nymphs are rounded and yellowish.

Identification Tips

Look for the galls on the underside of hackberry leaves; adults jump great distances and are small leafhopper-like insects.

Habitat

Primarily found on hackberry trees (genus Celtis), particularly in wooded areas where these trees grow.

Distribution

Throughout North America, most commonly east of the Rocky Mountains; also introduced in California.

Diet

Feeds on the sap of hackberry trees (Ulmaceae: Celtis spp.).

Life Cycle

Females lay eggs on developing hackberry leaves in early spring; adults emerge in late summer or early fall and overwinter in protected areas.

Reproduction

Eggs are specifically laid on the leaves of host plants, preferably developing leaves.

Ecosystem Role

As a plant-parasitic insect, it plays a role in the ecosystem by affecting the growth and health of hackberry trees due to gall formation.

Collecting Methods

  • Sweep netting
  • Hand collection from galls

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Drying specimens

Evolution

Part of the family Aphalaridae, sharing evolutionary traits with other psyllids.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Might be mistaken for leafhoppers due to similar appearance, but they are distinct in their behavior and life cycle having a strong association with hackberry trees.

Tags

  • Pachypsylla
  • Hackberry
  • Nipplegall maker
  • Hemiptera
  • Plant-parasitic insect