EXIT STRATEGY OF UROPHORA CARDUI (DIPTERA: TEPHRITIDAE) FROM ITS GALL ON CANADA THISTLE

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Abstract
Feeding activities of freshly hatched larvae of Urophora cardui (L.) cause the formation of callus-filled channels which later serve as the routes by which adults exit their galls. Callus cells of the channels deteriorate the following spring when the gall is wetted by melting snow and rainfall. Establishment of U. cardui as an agent in the biological control of Canada thistle may be impaired in habitats with insufficient moisture to degrade the callus plug.