Observations on Saddle Gall Midge (Haplodiplosis equestris (Wagn.)) in Eastern England

SUMMARY Data comparing the amount of infestation in eastern England on wheat, barley and oats by saddle gall midge are given for the years from 1967 to 1972. The level of infestation decreased in 1971 and 1972. The changes in the numbers of overwintering larvae in several fields, with their cropping, are recorded. In 1971 and 1972 the first adult was trapped on 18 and 19 May respectively; the peak flights occurred on 31 May 1971 and on 11 June 1972. It was not possible to obtain an overall relationship between the amount of galling and yield. It is suggested that the individual effects of the many factors which can affect yield can only be assessed from detailed experiments. In a small-scale trial in 1972, a fenitrothion spray applied in June prevented galling of barley.