Burnettweldia corallina
(Bassett, 1890)
Coral Gall Wasp
Burnettweldia corallina is a cynipid gall wasp that induces distinctive detachable galls on blue oaks (Quercus douglasii) in California. The was formerly classified under the Disholcaspis and Holcaspis before its current placement in Burnettweldia. The oviposits at the base of leaf petioles, and the resulting galls change color dramatically as they mature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Burnettweldia corallina: //bərˈnɛtˌwɛldiə kɔˈrælaɪnə//
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Identification
Galls are identified by their petiole-base attachment point on blue oak, detachable nature, and distinctive color progression from mottled red-orange-yellow to dark brown. Superficially similar to galls of Besbicus heldae and Cynips quercusechinus, but specificity and gall attachment location help distinguish this .
Images
Appearance
The has not been described in detail in available sources. The induced galls are the most visible feature: detachable, rounded structures attached at the base of leaf petioles. galls display mottled red-orange-yellow coloration; mature galls darken to deep brown and become brittle with age.
Habitat
Associated with blue oak (Quercus douglasii) woodlands and savannas in California.
Distribution
California, North America. Range corresponds to that of its plant, blue oak.
Host Associations
- Quercus douglasii - gall inductionBlue oak; galls form at base of leaf petioles
Behavior
Females oviposit at the base of leaf petioles on blue oak, inducing gall formation.
Similar Taxa
- Besbicus heldaeInduces oak galls that superficially resemble those of B. corallina
- Cynips quercusechinusInduces oak galls that superficially resemble those of B. corallina
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Holcaspis corallinus by Bassett in 1890, later transferred to Disholcaspis, and currently placed in Burnettweldia following taxonomic revision of cynipid .