Diplolepis polita
ExploreInsects
Diplolepis polita
Diplolepis polita
Diplolepis polita, also known as the Robin's pincushion, is a tiny insect that creates round, fuzzy galls on rose bushes. These galls are like little homes for the insect's larvae, making them very special!
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The Diplolepis polita is a tiny, dark, and often shiny wasp, appearing somewhat ant-like with a compact body and clear wings. Its most distinctive feature is not the wasp itself, but the reddish, spiky, mossy galls it creates on rose plants, which are much larger than the insect.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHymenopteraFamilyCynipidaeGenusDiplolepis
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Female Diplolepis polita can lay eggs that hatch into more females without needing a male!
The plant galls grow into a perfect, safe, food-filled house just for the tiny developing larvae!
The spiky, mossy galls created by these wasps are sometimes called 'Robin's Pincushion'!
These tiny wasps are so precise, they can make a rose bush grow a whole new structure!
Special abilities
Ability
Gall Architect
Diplolepis polita can chemically alter rose plants to grow protective, nutrient-rich nurseries for its young.
Ability
Tiny Engineer
Diplolepis polita has a specialized ovipositor that precisely injects eggs and chemicals into plant tissue.
Ability
Hidden Nursery
Diplolepis polita larvae can develop safely inside the plant galls, protected from many dangers.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 3-6 mm
- Size
- 2-4 mm
- Lifespan
- 7-14 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
The larvae eat rose plant cells while adults may sip nectar from various flowers.
Age differences: Larvae consume plant tissue within galls, while adult wasps may feed on nectar and pollen.
Primary Foods
- Rose plant cells
- Nectar
- Pollen
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
depends on
Dog Rose
Rosa canina
Host plant for gall formation.
parasitizes
Gall Wasp Parasitoid
Orthopelma mediator
Lays eggs inside Diplolepis larvae.
eats
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Great Tit
Parus major
Birds may predate on larvae in galls.
Traits
Furry
Furry describes animals possessing a dense covering of soft hair or fur.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Symbiotic
Describes a relationship between two different species where they live in close association, often benefiting one or both.
Miniature
Pertaining to species that are significantly smaller than typical or average for their kind.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
Robin's pincushion
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
It's best to look at the galls but not touch them, as they are homes for tiny insects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diplolepis polita's wingspan?
3-6 mm
How big is Diplolepis polita?
2-4 mm
How long does Diplolepis polita live?
7-14 days
What does Diplolepis polita eat?
The larvae eat rose plant cells while adults may sip nectar from various flowers.
Where is Diplolepis polita usually found?
Urban areas
How does Diplolepis polita hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Diplolepis polita have?
6
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