Field Guide to Plant Galls of California and Other Western States (California Natural History Guides)

Kind of insane that there is a 450 page book on galls of California, but if you are naturalist, knowing a bit about galls will transform your forest walks. Amazing book.

I bought this book because I owned and loved Russo's out of print first guide to plant galls. This is so much more. We are introduced to galls not only caused by cynipid wasps, but galls induced by aphids, moths, beetles, flies, and mites, plus galls that represent plant's responses to bacteria, fungi, and even mistletoe. The variety of these structures is amazing, and obviously much more is waiting to be discovered. If you are curious about the natural world, this beautifully illustrated book will be a good addition to your library.

Have used the book extensively now and identified every gall I have encountered on field trips in California, Arizona and Nevada. If you have an interest or want something else to look for when out walking in the woods then get this book.

I have seen the galls on plants and this book answers what made the galls. So many different kinds. A really interesting reference filled with information on the plants and insects

Perfect size, organization, filled with photos, descriptions (size, host plants, scientific names, lifecycle and illustrations), glossary, comprehensive index and 70 pages of essential Introduction. Besides, there is nothing else like it. I've used this guide for seven months in California and Arizona. If you want to identify and become familiar with plant galls of the western states, this is the book you need.

Ronald Russo's new handbook of galls of the western United States is a first-rate publication for individuals studying this fascinating topic.