x4 images. Double click to enlarge.

These extraordinary growths are caused by a miscroscopic mite called Eriophyes tiliae, and it is commonly known as the Red Nail Gall Mite.

They appear on the upper surface of the leaves of Large-leaved Lime (Tilia platyphyllos) and the hybrid Common Lime(Tilia x europaea). I found this tree in a local park covered in them.


How bizarre, I have seen the gall on oak leaves and I suppose these have the same devastating effect?
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This gall is species specific, but I suppose their are other similar galls out there. They don’t appear to harm the tree, thankfully.
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So odd and yet interesting. ๐
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Thank you, Irene ๐ I have a fascination for plant galls, and once you start looking it is amazing just how many there are.
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I can see why they are fascinating. ๐
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Interesting, and great close up captures, Peter!
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Thank you, Ellen ๐ It is always great discover a new species.
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Curious and interesting sighting!
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Thank you!
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What an odd phenomenon! You certainly nailed those images — they’re great!
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Lol! Thank you!
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I have wished to teleport you here to look at some of the interesting galls I have come across here – my interest in them awakened by your wonderfully clear photographs and explanations. Your title is perfect for these one ๐
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Beam me up Scotty ๐ I am so pleased I have got you interested in plant galls. They are amazing to see, and to learn about them ๐ Thank you!
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The insects that cause galls are so interesting. Nice bit of natural history, Pete. Here’s a post of my favorite.
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Thank you, Steve. Galls are very interesting, and when you think there are just over 1,000 species here in Britain I have only really scratched the surface. I am on the look out for more ๐ I have seen your gall before and commented, and it is a real beauty!
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I swa them many times, now I finaly know what they are. Many thanks ๐
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I have never seen them before until now … but I have a book on plant galls which helped me identify them.
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Fabulous shot of these good looking galls๐ Not seen such galls around here!
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Many thanks, Indira ๐
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One of so many fascinating forms. Great find!
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Thank you ๐ I always find plant galls facinating.
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You find so many interesting ones. I think I have to attend “gall-school”, to improve my eyes ๐
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๐ ๐ ๐
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Incredible!!!
Insane details!
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Thank you, Nuno! ๐
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You’re welcome, Peter!๐
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The post title is so apt ๐
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