Mulberry gall midge

The Mulberry gall midge (scientific name: Asphondylia morivorella) is a specialized insect pest belonging to the order Diptera and the family Cecidomyiidae. It is primarily known for its impact on mulberry trees (Morus), causing distinctive biological disturbances that affect the plant's development.

This pest exclusively targets mulberry plants, specifically attacking the buds. Given the importance of mulberry leaves in sericulture, the infestation of this midge can lead to significant economic losses for farmers, as the damage directly reduces the quality and quantity of available forage for silkworms.

The biological cycle of this midge involves the formation of galls, which are abnormal tissue outgrowths triggered by the insect's larvae. The female lays eggs within the developing buds. Once hatched, the larvae feed inside, causing the bud to swell and fail to open normally, creating a protected environment for the larvae to develop into pupae and eventually adults.

The damage caused by Asphondylia morivorella is characterized by the deformity of buds and the subsequent loss of terminal growth. Affected buds often fail to produce leaves, and heavy infestations can lead to substantial reduction in branch vitality. This weakening of the host plant is a primary concern for arborists and those managing mulberry plantations.

Effective management relies on a combination of cultural and chemical strategies. Cultural practices involve the careful pruning and disposal of infested buds before the adult insects emerge. Implementing these sanitation methods is crucial to break the life cycle. When populations reach economic injury levels, systemic insecticides may be applied to target larvae effectively within the buds.