Amphibolips melanocera Ashm.

Galls.--Greenish brown and yellowish green round, globular galls, issuing from bud axils of Quercus aquatica [nigra]; they vary greatly in size from one-quarter to half an inch in diameter. The outer shell is very thin, and interiorly there is a central kernel held in place by some very thin hair-like filaments.

This species resembles Amphibolips citriformis. The gall, too, is markedly different in shape, although constructed on the same plan as in that species.

Described from eight specimens bred in June.

Amphibolips melanocera

Quercus nigra
Bud galls
Globular, 6-12 mm in dia, yellowish green, from axillary buds in June, outer wall very thin, larval cell supported by very fine fibers. Only males reared. Entered from lit.

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On Q nigra. Globular bud gall 6-12 mm in diameter. Adults in June.

Amphibolips melanocera

Globose or ovate, yellowish green or brown, glossy when dry, thin-shelled, slightly nippled, axillary bud gall, diameter 7 to 15 mm, on Q nigra.

Amphibolips melanocera

Gall Issuing from the bud axilis of water oak (Quercus nigra). Globular or elongate oval, sometimes with a very short nipple at the apex. Greenish brown and yellowish green when fresh. Coffee brown and very glossy when dry. The outer shell is very thin, and internally there is a central kernel held in place by some very thin hair-like filaments. When dry the gall is very brittle, and may be easily crushed with the fingers. Diameter 7-15 mm.

The gall is constructed on the same plan [as Amphibolips citriformis] but is rounded or elongate oval and without a long pointed terminal prolongation at the apex.

Habitat: FL