Feron stellare

The galls of Feron stellare are the most reliable identification feature: they display a characteristic sunburst or star-like pattern with radiating ridges or spines. Adult wasps are small (approximately 2-4 mm), with reduced wing venation typical of the family Cynipidae. The species can be distinguished from other Feron species by gall morphology and microscopic examination of adult structural features, particularly antennae segmentation and ovipositor structure.

Associated with oak woodlands and forests where host Quercus species occur. Gall formation occurs on oak leaves, stems, or buds depending on the generation.

North America; primarily documented from the United States. Specific range details require further verification from primary sources.

Larvae feed on nutritive tissue within the gall structure induced on oak host plants. Adults do not feed; they exist solely to reproduce.

• Quercus - gall hostSpecific oak species not confirmed in available sources

As a gall inducer, creates microhabitats that may be used by inquilines (other organisms that occupy galls without inducing them) and parasitoids. Contributes to oak-associated food webs.

Minor significance; galls may attract attention due to their distinctive appearance. No known economic impact on oak trees or forestry operations.

• Other Feron speciesShare genus and similar gall-forming ecology; distinguished by gall morphology and adult structural characters
• Andricus speciesFormerly classified in this genus; related cynipids that also form oak galls, requiring careful examination to separate

• gall wasp
• cynipid
• oak gall
• Quercus
• Hymenoptera
• North America

• BugGuide
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy