Blueberry gall midge fact sheet now available by MSU Extension

New blueberry gall midge fact sheet helps identify damage that is easily confused with frost damage.

''Blueberry gall midge (Dasineura oxycoccana) is a small fly found almost everywhere blueberries are grown. It feeds on young leaf shoots and can cause leaves to become distorted. Feeding can also damage growing tips, resulting in growth of extra side shoots that tend to be stunted rather than shoots with flower buds.

Pest status varies across this insect’s geographical range, and in Michigan, it has not been shown to cause economic losses in mature fields. It is important, however, to be aware of this insect so the signs and symptoms of its feeding are not confused with more serious pests or other factors. Leaf shoots infested with gall midge larvae tend to turn brown and can easily be mistaken for frost injury.

A description of blueberry gall midge and methods for sampling and managing this insect are presented in a new fact sheet available through the Michigan State University Extension Bookstore called “Blueberry Gall Midge” (E3191).

Dr. Isaacs' work is funded in part by MSU's AgBioResearch.

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