Diplolepididae
Guides
Diplolepis
gall wasps, rose gall wasps
Diplolepis is a genus of gall-inducing wasps in the family Diplolepididae, most commonly associated with roses (Rosa spp.). These small wasps are notable for inducing complex, often conspicuous galls on their host plants through chemical manipulation of plant tissues. The genus includes both sexual and parthenogenetic species, with some like D. rosae reproducing primarily by thelytokous parthenogenesis. Diplolepis species exhibit intricate life cycles involving alternation between sexual and agamic generations, and their galls support diverse communities of parasitoids and inquilines.
Diplolepis gracilis
Diplolepis gracilis is a species of gall wasp in the family Diplolepididae, first described by Ashmead in 1897. Like other members of its genus, it induces the formation of galls on host plants, likely within the rose family (Rosaceae) given the genus's strong association with this plant group. The species is recorded from multiple provinces across Canada including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario. As with most Diplolepis species, it exhibits a complex life cycle involving an alternation between sexual and parthenogenetic generations.
Diplolepis nervosa
Spiked Pea Gall Wasp
Diplolepis nervosa is a gall wasp in the family Diplolepididae that induces distinctive spiked pea galls on wild roses (Rosa species). Like other members of its genus, it exhibits an alternation of generations with both sexual and parthenogenetic phases. The species is native to Europe and has been introduced to North America, where it has become established. The galls it produces are among the most recognizable of rose galls due to their characteristic spiny, pea-like appearance.