Gall Wasp vs Erratic Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Gall Wasp Erratic Ant
Scientific Name Andricus quercuscalicis Tapinoma erraticum
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Cynipidae Formicidae
Size 3-4 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Woodlands Heathland
Diet Gall Makers Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Gall Wasp

A tiny wasp that induces knopper galls on oak acorns, deforming them completely.

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Did You Know?

It has alternating sexual and asexual generations that produce different gall types.

Erratic Ant

A small dark ant common in southern Europe that runs in characteristic erratic zigzag patterns. It nests in dry, warm habitats under stones and in rock crevices.

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Did You Know?

Workers can raise their abdomens to spray defensive chemicals while simultaneously running at full speed.