Liothrips ilex
Moulton, 1907
toyon gall thrips
A gall-forming thrips in the Phlaeothripidae, Liothrips ilex is commonly known as the toyon gall thrips due to its association with toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). The species induces distinctive galls on plant foliage. Like other phlaeothripids, it exhibits the typical thrips with propupal and pupal stages. The species has been documented in North America with over 1,000 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is relatively well-recorded where its host plant occurs.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Liothrips ilex: //ˈlaɪ.oʊˌθrɪps ˈaɪ.lɛks//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Liothrips by its specific gall-forming association with toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). The induced galls on plant leaves provide the primary means of field identification. are minute insects with fringed wings characteristic of Thysanoptera.
Habitat
Associated with toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) in where this evergreen shrub occurs, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodland in California and adjacent regions.
Distribution
North America; primarily documented in California where its plant toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) is native and widely distributed.
Host Associations
- Heteromeles arbutifolia - gall inductionCommonly known as toyon or California holly; the specific epithet 'ilex' references this association
Behavior
Induces galls on toyon leaves through feeding activity. The gall formation represents the primary documented for this .
Ecological Role
As a gall-forming insect, modifies plant tissue to create protected microhabitats. The ecological impacts of gall induction on toyon have not been quantified.