Succulent Gall Wasp

Neuroterus fragilis

Classification

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

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Summary

Neuroterus fragilis, or the succulent gall wasp, is a species that induces galls in various oak species, particularly in California. It is distinguished from similar species by the nature of the galls it forms.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are small, 0.7–1.2 millimetres (0.028–0.047 in), with yellow legs. The galls it induces are 10–30 millimetres (0.39–1.18 in), and present as swellings of the petioles and midribs of oak leaves.

Identification Tips

These galls are always succulent looking and not cranial, twisted, hairy as in Neuroterus washingtonensis.

Habitat

Induces galls in oak trees in California.

Distribution

California.

Diet

Sap from oak trees where galls are formed.

Life Cycle

Only the spring bisexual generation, consisting of both males and females, is known; however, an all-female parthenogenic generation in summer is possible.

Reproduction

Bisexual generation in spring; possible parthenogenic generation in summer.

Ecosystem Role

Induces galls in oak trees, contributing to the ecosystem as a gall-forming insect.