Gall-forming insects are some of the most highly evolved herbivores in the world. Diptera and Hymenoptera are among the most dominant gall-forming groups, with estimated species ranging from 1300 (gall wasps) to 13000 (gall midges). The complex relationship between gall-forming midges and wasps and the host plant, Turkey oak, is considered to be a highly evolved association. Galls can contain multi-trophic, closed and complex communities with a variety of residents, including the gall inducer, parasitoids, hyperparasitoids and inquilines. The aim of the paper was to provide a list of gall-forming insects associated with Quercus cerris present in the Herneacova Forest (Timis County), under the climatic conditions of the year 2023. In autumn 2023, samples representing Cynipidae (Hymenoptera) and Ceciidomidae (Diptera) galls were collected from Quercus cerris trees. 2 observations were made in each cardinal direction, for a total of 8 points/observation. The visual inspection method was used, which consisted of visiting each observation point at a slow walking pace for a minimum of 30 minutes to 1 hour, with an interval of 10 to 14 days. In the Herneacova Forest, 9 species of gall - forming insects were collected and identified. The taxonomic structure revealed species belonging to orders Diptera and Hymenoptera, and families Ceciydomidae and Cynipidae. The following species are included in the list: Dryomyia circinans, Janetia cerris, Neuroterus numismalis, Neuroterus lanuginosus, Cynips quercusfolii, Andricus lignicola, Andricus kollari, Andricus quercus-salicis, Andricus caputmedusae.

gall-forming insects, species richness, impact, Quercus cerris, forest.

biology

Presentation: poster