Oak Apple Gall
Amphibolips confluenta (Harris)
J. D. Solomon, F. I. McCracken, R. L. Anderson, R. Lewis, Jr., F.L. Oliveria, T.H. Filer, and P.J. Barry
Importance – This is one of many leaf galls that affects oaks. These galls usually damage the tree less than do twig galls. However, heavy infestations of this and other leaf galls can cause premature leaf fall and are unsightly on ornamental trees.
Identifying the Insect – Adults are very small and dark with an oval, compressed abdomen. The larvae are small and globe-shaped.
Identifying the Injury – Galls are about .5 to 2 inches (12 to 50 mm) in diameter and are filled with a fibrous mass. Each contains a single larva inside a hard center capsule. The galls are produced on the midrib or stem of leaves. Galls formed during spring are green, but become light brown on drying with a thin, papery shell. Oak-apple galls occur principally on red, black, and scarlet oaks.
Biology – Oak-apple galls usually start during spring when the young leaf is being formed, sometimes appropriating the entire leaf for its own purpose. The biology is poorly known, but it probably has alternate generations on different host parts.
Control – Natural enemies are usually sufficient. Galls can be picked or pruned off small ornamental trees. Direct controls are seldom necessary.
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