April 29, 2018

Location: Turkey Creek Sanctuary, Palm Bay

These egg-looking things are known as "galls"
They are the plant reacting to
Chemical stimulus from fungi or bugs
Which cause plant cells to be produced.

The galls surround insect larva or eggs,
And protects or feeds the gall-maker.
In most cases, the gall doesn't hurt the plant,
It's all just the wonder of nature!

Sources: Backyard Gardener - IFAS Extension - Galls on Oaks and Other Plants in the Landscape

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson