Rhopalomyia

Rhopalomyia is a genus of gall midges in the family Cecidomyiidae. These small flies are known for their ability to induce the formation of galls on various plant species, primarily within the Asteraceae family. The larvae of Rhopalomyia species feed within these galls, which provide protection and a concentrated food source.

The galls produced by Rhopalomyia can vary significantly in appearance depending on the host plant and the specific species of midge. They may manifest as swellings, leaf rolls, bud deformities, or flower distortions. Some common host plants include species of Artemisia (wormwood) and Solidago (goldenrod). The life cycle of Rhopalomyia typically involves overwintering in the larval stage within the gall. Adults emerge in the spring to reproduce, with females laying eggs on susceptible plant tissues.

Several species within the Rhopalomyia genus are well-documented. For example, Rhopalomyia californica is known for causing woody galls on Baccharis pilularis. Rhopalomyia solidaginis is a common gall maker on goldenrod. The study of Rhopalomyia is important for understanding insect-plant interactions and gall formation mechanisms. While generally not considered major agricultural pests, some species can cause aesthetic damage to ornamental plants. Identification of Rhopalomyia species often relies on morphological characteristics of both the adult midges and the galls they produce.