Zygiobia carpini

Gall midge Zygiobia carpini

Description

Zygiobia carpini is a gall midge that creates elongated galls on the undersides of leaves of Carpinus betulus (European hornbeam) and sometimes Ostrya carpinifolia. This oligophagous species is distributed across Europe and is relatively common in its range. It has one generation per year, with larvae overwintering in the soil and emerging as adults in spring.

The galls, typically located along the midrib or major veins, distort the natural appearance of leaves and can reduce the ornamental value of the host tree. While the damage is mainly aesthetic, high gall density can slightly impair the photosynthetic capacity of heavily infested trees.

Symptom

Elongated galls, 3–5 cm long, are found on the undersides of leaves along the midrib or side veins. Each gall houses a white larva. Galls can also appear on the fruits of the hornbeam.

Tree Species: Hornbeam, Hop Hornbeam

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes