Creosote Bush
Larrea tridentata
Bulldog Canyon, Maricopa Co., Arizona. 11 Oct. 2008. Dried gall caused by a midge, Asphondylia.
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The growth at left was caused by the presence of tiny fly midge larvae belonging to the genus Asphondylia. A dozen or so maggots developed at the center while producing minute quantities plant hormone analogs that directed the plant's growth in favor of the parasites. Soon after the flies emerged the growth was aborted and died. It may remain on the plant for many years.
Zygophyllaceae -- Caltrop Family
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Among the insects that feed on Creosote
Bush is a grasshopper called the Desert Clicker, so called because its
incessant clicking often seems to be the only activity during mid-day during
the scorching summer heat. It is colored similarly to the twigs and as the
observer approaches it scoots to the away side. Hearing them is easy - spotting
one very difficult.
For insects, looking like what
you eat is often a matter of survival. That's because there are many
sharp-eyed, insectivorous birds and reptiles. As the leaves of creosote bush
yellow and die they loose some of their volitile, anti-feeding compounds, and
become a food source for
detritivores. These beetles, Pachybrachis mellitus, feed as
larvae on leaf litter and may feed as adults on the yellow petals of the
flowers when they are present.
The
green plant bug at right also can hide very effectively on Creosote Bush. When
that fails swift legs and a pair of wings ready to be unfolded for use will aid
in escape. Insectivorous birds like
Verdins and
gnatcatchers are also sharp-eyed and very quick guaranteeing that this
evolutionary race will keep on going.