Galling insects are a highly sophisticated herbivore group on Caryocar brasiliense, a tree that represents the main income source for many communities.

What insects cause galls?

The three major groups of insects that cause galls are aphids and their relatives, gall midges, and gall wasps. The aphid group includes aphids, phylloxerans, and psyllids.

What does gall look like?

The appearance is generally recognized as a bump, peak, or scabby area of plant flesh. They are firm to the touch and may be thickly coating a plant, found singly or in pairs. Leaf galls on plants might be green and match the plant material. They might also be bright pink or red and resemble large pimples.