Amphibolips ellipsoidalis
Amphibolips ellipsoidalis is a of gall wasp in the Cynipidae. Members of this are known to induce galls on oak trees (Quercus species). The specific epithet 'ellipsoidalis' refers to the elliptical shape of the gall structure it produces. This species is part of a diverse radiation of cynipid specialized on oaks in North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Amphibolips ellipsoidalis: //æmˌfɪbəˈlɪps ɛˌlɪpsɔɪˈdeɪlɪs//
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Identification
The gall induced by A. ellipsoidalis is elliptical to oval in shape and develops on oak leaves. Specific morphological features of the are not well documented in accessible literature. Identification relies primarily on gall and association.
Images
Habitat
Associated with oak forests and woodlands where Quercus occur.
Distribution
North America; records indicate presence in the United States, particularly in regions with native oak .
Host Associations
- Quercus - gall inducerSpecific oak not confirmed in available sources
Behavior
Induces gall formation on oak leaves. The larva develops within the gall tissue, which provides nutrition and protection.
Ecological Role
As a gall inducer, creates microhabitats on oak foliage that may be utilized by other organisms including and .
Similar Taxa
- Amphibolips quercusostensackeniiAlso produces elliptical galls on oaks; gall shape and may overlap, requiring careful examination of gall dimensions and location on leaf
- Other Amphibolips speciesNumerous induce structurally similar leaf galls on oaks; precise identification often requires gall dissection or rearing of
More Details
Gall morphology
The name directly describes the ellipsoidal form of the gall, distinguishing it from spherical or irregular galls produced by related species.