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Knopper Gall

©Les Binns

Knopper Gall

©Amy Lewis

Knopper gall wasp

Scientific name: Andricus quercuscalicis
The knopper gall wasp produces knobbly red, turning to brown, growths, or 'galls', on the acorns of Pedunculate Oak. Inside the gall, the larvae of the wasp feed on the host tissues, but cause little damage.

Species information

Category

Statistics

Length of gall: up to 2.8cm

Conservation status

Introduced species.

When to see

January to December

About

The knopper gall wasp, Andricus quercuscalicis, is a tiny wasp that produces ridged outgrowths, or 'galls', on the acorns of our native Pedunculate Oak; forming in August they are sticky and red, later becoming woody and brown. A second generation then develops in the catkins of Turkey Oak.

How to identify

The knopper gall wasp produces knobbly, bowl-shaped protrusions from acorns. They begin sticky and red, later turning brown.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

Like most gall wasps, the lifecycle of the knopper gall wasp is complicated, with an alternation of a sexual and asexual generation each year.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts record and monitor our local wildlife to understand the effects of various factors on their populations, such as the introduction of new species. You can help with this vital monitoring work by becoming a volunteer - you'll not only help local wildlife, but learn new skills and make new friends along the way.