Thecodiplosis brachyntera

Needle-shortening pine gall midge

Description

It is small insect, about 2-3 mm. Adults fly in May. Females lay 2-6 eggs to the base of needles of bud breaking pine trees. Larvae hatch already after few days. They hide under the scales of pines sheath where they suck juices from growing tissues. Needles at the place of sucking frequently get thicken. Until autumn the needles are green, however, later on they get brown colour and fall down. This pest causes damage mainly in pine forests within the age of 50 years. It is a significant pest of all pine species including Pinus mugo.

Symptom

Needles are shortened and rusty. Needles at the place of sucking frequently thicken. Until autumn the needles are green, later on they get brown colour and fall down.

Tree Species: Pine

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes