Liposthenes glechomae
Linnaeus, 1758
Glechoma gall wasp
Liposthenes glechomae is a in the that induces on its Glechoma hederacea (ground ivy). The is to Europe and Northern Asia but has been to North America, where both the and its host plant are considered . Research on this species has contributed to understanding gall mechanisms in cynipid wasps.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Liposthenes glechomae: //lɪˈpɒsθəˌniːz ˈɡlɛkəˌmiː//
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Identification
induced by this begin as small red blemishes on foliage and develop into large green galls nearly as long as one of the 's leaves. The itself is small and wasp-like, typical of , with specific identification requiring examination of morphological features not detailed in available sources.
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Habitat
Associated with Glechoma hederacea (ground ivy), a of woodland edges, hedgerows, and disturbed ground. In North America, found in where the plant has established.
Distribution
to Europe and Northern Asia (excluding China). and established in North America.
Diet
feed within on tissues of Glechoma hederacea. do not feed; their role is and gall .
Host Associations
- Glechoma hederacea - form on foliage. in North America.
Life Cycle
Females lay in tissue, inducing formation. develop within the protective gall enclosure. Research indicates that larval presence is necessary for continued gall growth—surgical removal of larvae caused gall growth to stop in this .
Behavior
Females induce formation through substances during . The mechanism involves compounds that stimulate abnormal growth, though the specific compounds used by this are not definitively identified.
Ecological Role
As a inducer, modifies growth and tissue allocation. Creates microhabitats within galls that may be used by other organisms (, ), though specific associations for this are not documented.
Human Relevance
In North America, both the and its Glechoma hederacea are non- . The wasp is not considered economically significant. Used in research on mechanisms.
Similar Taxa
- Other Liposthenes speciesSame , likely similar associations and ; differentiation requires detailed morphological study
- Other Cynipidae on LamiaceaeMay induce similar foliar on mint plants; association is primary distinguishing feature
More Details
Research significance
Liposthenes glechomae was used in a study demonstrating that larval presence is required for continued growth, distinguishing it from some other where gall occurs solely through maternal secretions at .