Gnorimoschema gallaeasterella

(Kellicott, 1878)

Sort #: 622 | P3 #: 421203 | MPG #: 1985
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Larval feeding type: In an elliptical stem gall (about 1.25" x 0.5") near the apex of a stunted stem.
Larval substrate: Eurybia divaricata* (White Wood-aster), Solidago flexicaulis* (Zig-zag Goldenrod), Solidago caesia (Blue-stem Goldenrod), Solidago rugosa* (Common Wrinkle-leaved Goldenrod), Symphyotrichum cordifolium (Heart-leaved American-aster)

Comment: Larvae pupate around end of July, which would be the time to look for galls and to rear the moth; the species was found in the Boston area on Eurybia divaricata in the early 20th century by Miss Cora Clarke. Galls on Doellingeria umbellata may be referrable to G. gallaediplopappi (Fyles, 1890). Both taxa are found in Massachusetts. More biological and taxonomical work needs to be done to clarify the distinctions between them.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Restricted distribution, rare
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 2022
Last Year Reported: 2023

Distribution by County: Middlesex
Number of Records: 2