Eriophyes similis

Gall mites are extremely tiny plant feeders, often around 0.5mm in size. They are members of the Arachnid group, which includes spiders and mites, and are small enough to pierce and feed on individual plant cells, causing the surrounding cells to enlarge and multiply to form the gall. The mite Eriophyes similis causes galls to form on the leaves of Prunus species, usually Blackthorn, but also on plums and damsons. The galls are usually heaviest around the leaf margins.

Eriophyes homophyllus

Gall  Adult

State host, and provide photo

Around Blackthorn.

Galls appear in May and are usually mature in August or September.

Very common in many localities throughout England.

Thought to be common in Leicestershire and Rutland.