Spatial distribution and abundance of bud galls caused by eriophyoid mites among host trees Carpinus tschonoskii

Abstract:  Differences in spatial distribution and abundance of bud galls caused by eriophyoid mites (Acari: Eriophyoidea) among Carpinus tschonoskii (Betulaceae) were studied. This mite preferentially induces galls on terminal buds. Four factors influencing gall abundance were examined: host tree size, host tree's reproductive status, altitude and study site. As tree size increased, the number of galls increased to an apparent asymptote. This result suggests that tree size-dependent characteristics such as number of terminal buds, temporal pattern of shoot elongation and reproductive status influence gall abundance.