Diplolepis variabilis
ExploreInsects
Diplolepis variabilis
Diplolepis variabilis
Diplolepis variabilis, also known as the rose gall wasp, is a tiny insect that makes galls on rose plants. These galls are like little homes for the wasp's babies, and they can look like colorful bumps on the leaves.
Habitat: Gardens
Appearance
The Diplolepis variabilis is a tiny, dark-bodied wasp, typically black or dark brown. It is most easily identified by the smooth, often reddish or greenish, spherical galls it induces on the leaves of rose plants, which house its developing larvae.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHymenopteraFamilyCynipidaeGenusDiplolepis
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Each gall is a miniature fortress against danger.
The galls they create are like cozy, edible homes.
These wasps are masters of plant transformation.
Your rose bushes might hide tiny, living nurseries!
Special abilities
Ability
Gall Architect
Diplolepis variabilis can create spherical galls on rose leaves because of chemical signals that reprogram plant growth, helping protect its larvae.
Ability
Asexual Advantage
Diplolepis variabilis can reproduce without a male through parthenogenesis, allowing populations to quickly establish and grow.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 4-8 mm
- Size
- 2-4 mm
- Lifespan
- 14-30 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Larvae munch on rose plant tissue inside galls, while adults sip sweet nectar.
Age differences: Larvae consume plant tissue inside galls; adults feed on nectar.
Primary Foods
- rose leaf tissue
- rose sap
- nectar
Ecological connections
parasitizes
Dog Rose
Rosa canina
induces galls on leaves for larvae
parasitizes
Chalcid Wasp
Ormyrus orientalis
lays eggs inside the gall wasp larvae
parasitizes
Torymid Wasp
Torymus bedeguaris
parasitizes developing larvae within the galls
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
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.
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
Rose Gall Wasp
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
It's safe to look at these wasps, but don't touch them or the galls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diplolepis variabilis's wingspan?
4-8 mm
How big is Diplolepis variabilis?
2-4 mm
How long does Diplolepis variabilis live?
14-30 days
What does Diplolepis variabilis eat?
Larvae munch on rose plant tissue inside galls, while adults sip sweet nectar.
Where is Diplolepis variabilis usually found?
Gardens
How many legs does Diplolepis variabilis have?
6
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
Loading map…
Recent Snaps
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.
_(21834526600).jpg&width=800)
