Contribution to the identification of gall wasps (Insecta; Hymenoptera;Cynipidae) in the Mirbeck’s oak forests (Quercus canariensis Willd.)of Kroumiria, North West of Tunisia

Abstract: The forest stands of Mirbeck’s oak (Quercus canariensis Willd.) (pure or mixed withcork oak) extends in the North West of Tunisia over approximately 20,000ha. The altitude, heavyrainfall, and high humidity favor a high biodiversity, notably in gall wasps, a group of microwaspinducing galls on various organs (leaves, buds, fruit, etc.) of the plant. The ecological studyundertaken in the oak forests of Kroumiria since 2004, allowed to identify ten species of gallwasps representing 3 genera, among which Andricus (4 species) is the richest. We presented herethe different Cynipidae species identified for the first time on Mirbeck’s oaks in Tunisia and themorphological characteristics of their galls. These galls may affect the trees’ health andcontribute to their lower productivity. This calls for a more serious health surveillance to stemtheir potential overgrowth.