Neuroterus chrysolepis, new species

Host. — Quercus chrysolepis Liebm.

Gall (Fig. 1A).—An abrupt, blister-like, monothalamous swelling that arises on the young stems of Quercus chrysolepis. The galls mature slowly and require at least nine months to complete their development. Developing galls contained large larvae in March, pupae in April and yielded adults in late April and early May. At this time, adult females could be taken as they oviposited into the new leaf buds and stem growth. Infestation was quite heavy on some trees and in many instances, the new growth was severely damaged or completely killed. This is the first Neuroterus to be described from Quercus chrysolepis or from related oaks in this group. Insects of this genus had previously been known from galls on white oaks only. This species shows distinct differences in sculpture from other Pacific Slope members of the genus.

Locality. — Specimens in the type series were collected at Pasadena, California.

Quercus chrysolepis
Stem galls, woody stem swellings or cells under the bark
Abrupt blister in thickened bark, usually single, 6 mm long. Mono.