Goldenrod is a common wildflower of eastern and central North America that is host to the goldenrod gall fly larvae (Eurosta solidaginis). The larvae themselves aren’t seen, but instead secrete themselves within a goldenrod gall inside of which they eat and grow well away from predators. The goldenrod gall fly life cycle in its entirety is fascinating. Keep reading to learn about this intriguing fly. About Goldenrod Wildflowers Goldenrod, a member of the Asteraceae or aster family, is a weedy, perennial herb. With over 150 species, this wildflower can be found in prairies, fields, roadsides and disturbed land areas. Along with this often invasive weed, comes the swollen ball-shaped galls formed by the goldenrod gall fly. Not every variety of goldenrod is suitable for egg laying to the female goldenrod gall fly. Her preference is for Canada goldenrod, late goldenrod, or giant goldenrod, and her fastidiousness extends towards “tasting” each […]
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