Mulberry gall midge

The Mulberry gall midge (Diplosis mori) is a specialized insect pest belonging to the order Diptera and the family Cecidomyiidae. It is primarily recognized for its negative impact on mulberry trees, where it causes characteristic deformations on leaves due to larval feeding.

The primary host for this pest is the mulberry tree (Morus). While mature trees may tolerate some damage, heavy infestations in nurseries and sericulture-oriented plantations can be devastating, leading to significant foliage loss and reduced growth vigor.

The biological cycle of the midge involves overwintering as larvae in the soil or within leaf litter beneath the host tree. During spring, the adult midges emerge, mate, and lay eggs on the tender, expanding foliage. The larvae burrow into the leaf tissue, where they feed and develop, inducing the plant to create protective structures known as galls.

The damage manifests as small swellings or irregular growths on the leaves. These galls disrupt the normal physiological processes of the leaf, causing yellowing, curling, and early senescence. Under severe pressure, entire shoots can become stunted, reducing the amount of high-quality leaf material available for silkworm rearing.

Managing this pest requires a strategic approach, especially when leaves are intended for silkworm feed:

• Rigorous sanitation by removing and disposing of infested leaf litter during autumn.
• Cultivating the soil beneath the canopy to destroy overwintering larvae and pupae.
• Monitoring emergence patterns to time potential interventions correctly.
• Selecting less susceptible cultivars to maintain plantation health over the long term.