Dasineura tiliae

Description

Dasineura tiliae is a gall midge species that induces galls on lime trees (Tilia spp.), including Tilia cordata, Tilia platyphyllos, and Tilia tomentosa. This monophagous pest is widely distributed across Europe, where it primarily affects urban and ornamental lime trees. The larvae feed within galls formed along the edges of leaves and flower bracts. These galls can vary in color from green to red and may cause noticeable leaf curling and deformation.

The lifecycle of Dasineura tiliae includes one generation per year. Larvae overwinter in the soil and pupate before emerging as adults in spring. While the intensity of infestation is usually not severe, large populations may reduce the aesthetic value of host trees and mildly impact their photosynthetic efficiency, especially in heavily infested urban environments.

Symptom

Galls appear as thickened, curled edges on leaves and flower bracts, often with red or green coloration. Affected leaves may also display discolored spots on their surface. Larvae are visible within opened galls.

Tree Species: Lime

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes