Neuroterus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Cynipoidea
Family: Cynipidae
Tribe: Cynipini
Genus: Neuroterus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Neuroterus: /ˌnʊəroʊˈtɛrəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Neuroterus saltarius by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Neuroterus sadlerensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Neuroterus coniferus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Neuroterus pacificus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Neuroterus is a genus of gall wasps that induce galls on oak trees. The larvae live and feed within these galls, and some galls exhibit behavior reminiscent of jumping beans due to the movement of the larvae.

Physical Characteristics

Galls induced by Neuroterus species can vary, with some like Neuroterus saltatorius producing galls about 1 to 1.5 mm in diameter that can 'jump' along the ground.

Identification Tips

Identification of various Neuroterus species often relies on examining the specific characteristics of the galls they produce on oak trees.

Habitat

Typically found on oak trees where they induce galls.

Diet

Larvae develop and feed within the galls formed on oak leaves.

Life Cycle

Neuroterus species typically have two generations each year; one sexual and one asexual (or agamic). They produce galls on different parts of the host plant for each generation.

Reproduction

Includes both sexual reproduction and asexual (agamic) reproduction across its two generations.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role in plant-insect interactions and contribute to the diversity of oak ecosystems.

Evolution

Recent studies indicate that the genus Neuroterus may be poly- or paraphyletic, suggesting reclassification of some species into other genera may occur.