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Contarinia acerplicans

Gall midge Contarinia acerplicans

Description

Contarinia acerplicans is a gall midge species that induces distinctive galls on maples (Acer spp.), particularly Acer pseudoplatanus. This pest is widely distributed across central, western, and eastern Europe, including the British Isles. The lifecycle includes two generations per year in southern regions (bivoltine) and likely one in northern areas (univoltine). Larvae develop within galls, overwintering in the soil and emerging as adults in spring.

The galls are formed on the leaves, resulting in folded, pouch-like structures with white hairs inside. These galls house multiple gregarious, white larvae. While infestations are generally not severe, high populations can reduce the aesthetic value of ornamental trees and cause stress to the host. The deformation of leaves disrupts the photosynthetic capacity and may weaken the tree over time. However, significant long-term damage is uncommon in healthy, well-maintained trees.

Symptom

Infested leaves display reddish, folded galls often along the veins. Galls with white hairs inside house white larvae. Severely infested leaves may show curling and deformation.

Tree Species: Maple

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes