Galls are fascinating structures found on a wide variety of plants. These abnormal growths are caused by a range of organisms, including insects, mites, fungi, and bacteria. Galls can vary in size, shape, and color, and can serve a range of functions for the organisms that inhabit them. This presentation will explore the diverse range of galls found in nature, from the simple bumps caused by mites to the complex structures induced by wasps. Join us virtually or in person to learn what galls are, how to identify the organisms that make them, and even how you could find the next undescribed species.
About the Presenter
Kimberlie Sasan is a Research Assistant at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. She is also a Cross Timbers Texas Master Naturalist based in the Fort Worth area. Kimberlie began as a volunteer with BRIT and through bluebird nest box monitoring, experiences that she continues to enjoy today. Her curiosity about nature soon expanded to insects, leading her to complete the Texas AgriLife Master Volunteer Entomology Specialist training in 2018. She is an avid “moth-er” and enjoys traveling across Texas to document plants and insects on iNaturalist, where she has contributed more than 36,600 observations. In 2022, she described a new species of gall found on the FWBG campus, Druon laceyi, and currently serves as an Administrator for Gallformers.org.
Date: Tuesday, April 7, 2025.
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Price: FREE
Location: The Commons of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) Building, or online via the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83406699529
Inclement Weather: This event is indoors and will proceed as scheduled, rain or shine.
The BRIT Research Lecture Series is designed to create community wide conversation about a diverse range of important and rapidly developing topics. This series gives scientists and speakers a forum for sharing the most current information about their areas of expertise and allows the public to interact with leading members of the local, national, and international scientific community.
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