Gallfly

/ˈɡɔːlˌflaɪ/ noun

Definition

A small insect, typically a type of wasp or fly, that lays eggs on plants causing the formation of abnormal growths called galls.

Etymology

Compound from Old French 'galle' (an abnormal swelling on a plant) and 'fly,' indicating the insect responsible for creating these growths.

Kelly Says

Gallflies inspired some of the earliest scientific investigations into how organisms communicate chemically—their ability to 'tell' plants to build custom structures is mind-blowing!

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