Thread subject: Diptera.info :: larva in Fraxinus gall
Posted by Carnifex on 02-03-2022 11:21
#1
I collected this gall (induced by the mite
Aceria fraxinivora) on the ground of a backyard in Vienna, so the larva might have come from the soil.
It produced some sticky threads (in the first photo, with a dead bark louse). In the last two photos, a needle-like structure is visible in the head region
Edited by Carnifex on 02-03-2022 11:21
Posted by Jan Maca on 02-03-2022 20:45
#2
A cecidomyiid, Arthrocnodax fraxinellus, is considered a predator of Aceria fraxinivora. The structure in the head region may be spatula sternalis. I do not know if cecidomyiids can produce sticky threads.
Posted by Carnifex on 02-03-2022 21:41
#3
Yes,
Arthrocnodax, that was my target species - I was collecting these galls to search for them, and actually was successful:
But these larvae look quite different (and are smaller), and I do not know whether later stages would transform so much but I am sceptical.
I mentioned the structure in the head because I was thinking of spatula sternalis as well - so maybe
Arthrocnodax, maybe another Cecidomyiid, maybe s.th. different?
Posted by Jan Maca on 03-03-2022 14:16
#4
Well, it is even not excluded that small yellow larvae are cecidomyiids (Arthrocnodax?)and the larger ones might be e. g. ceratopogonids. Interesting case, hopefully you shall obtain imagoes.
Posted by Carnifex on 10-03-2022 10:19
#5
Stored in absolute EtOH, I fear its development is impeded for the foreseeable future...