Overwintering-wax-stage
Guides
Phylloxerina nyssae
Phylloxerina nyssae is a minute gall-forming phylloxerid that induces distinctive yellowish-white crescent-shaped galls along the leaf margins of Nyssa sylvatica (black tupelo or sour gum). Adults are approximately 1 mm in length with sucking mouthparts positioned between the first pair of legs. The species reproduces asexually within galls, with females producing dozens of pill-shaped translucent eggs. Overwintering occurs as wax-covered individuals concealed in bark crevices and craggy trunk folds. While the gall formation causes cosmetic damage to foliage, the tree remains otherwise healthy.