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Andricus curtisii

Gall wasp Andricus curtisii

Description

Andricus curtisii, is a species of gall wasp that induces the formation of distinctive \"oak apples\" or \"galls\" on certain species of oak trees. These galls are growths that develop in response to chemicals injected by the female wasp into the oak twigs. The galls appear as large, round, and often woody structure, varying in color from ochre to brown. Inside the gall, the wasp larva develops and feeds on the plant tissue. Once fully grown, the adult wasp emerges from the gall. The gall shape is similar to those induced by Andricus truncicola, but are significantly larger. Not fully common species occurs in the Mediterranean area. 

Symptom

Galls about 2 cm in size on a twig. Galls is formed by several 5-6 angular outgrowths.

Tree Species: Oak

Part of a plant- attacked: Branch

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes