Cecidomyoidea

Cecidomyoidea is a small superfamily of flies within the order Diptera. It is best known for the gall midges, especially the family Cecidomyiidae, whose larvae induce galls or feed in plant tissues. The composition of the superfamily has varied across classifications, but it is generally regarded as including Cecidomyiidae and closely related lineages that share similar life histories.

Adults are tiny and delicate, typically 0.5–3 mm in length, with long antennae and slender wings that often bear reduced venation. The larval stage is the primary life stage, with larvae feeding inside plant tissues or on galls that they induce on leaves, stems, roots, or developing fruits. Some species have life histories that involve sap-feeding within plant tissue or association with fungal structures.

Ecological and economic importance: Several gall midges are agricultural pests, especially on cereals and fruit crops. For example, the Hessian fly Mayetiola destructor and the pink wheat midge Sitodiplosis mosellana are well-known pests of wheat and related crops. Other Cecidomyiidae induce galls on a wide range of plants and can affect ornamental or cropping species. The superfamily is distributed worldwide, with greater diversity in temperate regions. Research on Cecidomyoidea informs studies of plant–insect interactions, gall formation, and pest management, while many species remain poorly known due to their small size and cryptic life cycles.