Kokkocynips imbricariae
(Ashmead, 1896) Nieves-Aldrey, Nicholls, Tang, Melika, Stone, Pujade-Villar, Buffington, Maldonado & Medianero, 2021
Banded Bullet Gall Wasp
Kokkocynips imbricariae is a gall wasp in the tribe Cynipini, transferred from Dryocosmus to Kokkocynips in 2021 based on molecular and morphological evidence. It induces galls on red oaks (Quercus section Lobatae) and is distributed in the Nearctic region. The species was originally described by Ashmead in 1896.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Kokkocynips imbricariae: /ˌkɒk.koʊˈsɪnɪps ˌɪm.brɪˈkɛə.ri.i/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
As a member of Kokkocynips, this can be distinguished from Dryocosmus and Callirhytis by characters established in the 2021 systematic revision. Specific diagnostic features for the are provided in identification keys for the . The gall on oaks may aid field identification.
Images
Habitat
Associated with forests and woodlands containing red oaks (Quercus section Lobatae).
Distribution
Nearctic region: recorded from Canada (Ontario) and the United States (Vermont).
Host Associations
- Quercus section Lobatae - gall inductionRed oaks; exclusive association for
Ecological Role
Gall-inducer on oaks; modifies plant tissue to form protective structures for larval development.
Similar Taxa
- Dryocosmus rileyiFormerly placed in same ; now transferred to Kokkocynips; similar use on red oaks
- Callirhytis difficilisFormerly in different ; now classified in Kokkocynips; historically confused due to similar
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Andricus imbrecariae by Ashmead in 1896, later treated as Dryocosmus imbricariae, and transferred to Kokkocynips in 2021 as part of a comprehensive revision that redefined generic limits using molecular .
Gall characteristics
Produces bullet-shaped galls on red oaks; specific gall detailed in systematic revision ( references banded appearance).