The flowers are arranged in clusters, usually in threes. The plant may offer an additional reward and reason to stick around in the form of nectar not associated with flowers (extra-floral nectaries) or resins, specifically aimed at payment to their protectors. It is sometimes called the river birch aphid because it is most often noticed on river birch on which it causes bumpy ridges on the leaves. While looking at the flower photos that I took during the storm, I found a moth taking refuge on a branch near the flowers, waiting for the temperatures to warm up enough to become active and search for nectar. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books; pp.205-206. Revised: May 11, 2021. SO. The main thing though are the articles are simply great. Stops Ear Infections from Developing. document.write(year) This toxin acts as a warning to other aphids, causing them to fly away. I think the galls resemble a stereotypical witch's hat (see the image below). Published in 1893, How to Know the Wild Flowers has been called the first field guide to North American plants. Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. One definite leaf eater is the witch-hazel leaf gall aphid (Hormaphis hamamelidis). The alternation of hosts is well known for other aphids (woolly apple aphid: apple and elm; woolly alder aphid: maple and alder; green peach aphid: peach and many other hosts). The aleurodiform of the witchhazel leaf gall aphid on birch. The leaves of witch hazel often bear galls in the shape of a cone, caused by the aptly named witch hazel cone gall aphid (Hormaphis hamamelidis). Strain herbs out and mix water with 1 cup of witch hazel or rubbing alcohol. The galls are green, sometimes with reddish tips, and are formed on the upper leaf surfaces. First off, keep trees watered during the summer. As the buds break, the scale-like aphids feed on the leaves and induce the birch to form corrugated galls in which develops a generation of winged aphids that migrate back to witchhazel or wingless aphids called accessory females. For assistance, contact your local N.C. The anthers have not yet open to release pollen. Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), still blooming in spite of the snow. Such tenacity can pay off. The witch-hazel cone gall aphid (Hormaphis hamamelidis) is a minuscule insect, a member of the aphid superfamily, whose presence on a witch-hazel plant is easily recognizable by a conical gall structure. Soak seeds in water overnight, plant outside in pots or a nursery bed, and wait until the second spring for germination. This can obscure some of the blooms, especially since both foliage and flowers are similar shades of yellow. Aphids are phloem feeding insects and are vectors of a diversity of plant viruses (Ng and Perry, 2004;Wang et al., 2006; Vilcinskas, 2016). And not only does witch-hazel flummox the landscape with its tardy cool-weather blossoms, but, almost uniquely it holds buds, flowers and fruit simultaneously. Feeding on the flower buds induces the plant to form a spiny gall inside of which develop a second generation of winged aphids that eventually leave the galls and fly to birch. Foster, Steven; Duke, James A. Enjoy these bright blossoms while they last! Wikipedia ; Hormaphis on Wikispecies . Pampering and nurturing their natural enemies is an excellent method of organic aphid control. The aphids become active . It is important to understand the life cycles and tendencies of insects in the park. Hemorrhoids. Galls are abnormal swellings of plant tissue, usually on leaves and twigs. Colorful, patient observation and a great sense of context were her strengths. Thanks for sharing your beautiful pictures and so much information. They are attracted by the color of the petals, a mild (to me, at least) fragrance, and the fact that there is not much else in bloom. Prune out green galls in summer. Aphids are responsible for the formation of two different galls (abnormal plant growths caused by insects, fungi, bacteria and viruses) on Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana). A&T State University, in all 100 counties and with the Eastern Band of Cherokee The gall induced on witch-hazel is cone-shaped, leading to another common name being the Witch-hazel cone gall aphid. Add Essential Oils to the Mix. She's part pilgrim and part vampire, purplish black and pear-shaped. Any chance of using Canadian spellings..centre, not center, colour not color, metre not metre, etc.? There are late blossoms in fields and woods. Once inside her gall the stem mother reproduces asexually and fills the gall with 50-70 female offspring. #gardening #aphids #treesIf you ever wondered what was inside a cone gall, or the red spikes on your Witch Hazel here it is. Photo by Ashley Bradford. Thanks, Cathy! There is a crescendo of ripening fruit accompanied by a frenzy of avian and mammalian foraging, feasting and caching. Saddled prominent is a green to brown or yellow caterpillar with a reddish brown spot on its back. Witch-Hazel leaf gall aphid causes galls 1/2-inch-long. ( MBP list) Spiny Witch Hazel Gall Aphid in Carroll Co., Maryland (8/17/2014). The tomatoes we harvest at summers end represent the plants reproductive determinism since they contain seeds of another generation (some viable, some not). Asher is a former editorial intern at The Scientist. Try an Alcohol Spray for Pest Control. 1951. Find more information at the following NC State Extension websites: Publication date: Jan. 6, 2017 The aphids become active in the spring when the leaf buds are opening. It is native in the Eastern half of the United States, and Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in Canada. Part of its life cycle uses birches as an alternate host. Acne. Hamamelis vernalis, a species confined to the Ozarks, blooms strongly in winter, well before its leaves appear.). Aphids emerge from cones in the late spring/early summer and fly to birch to lay eggs. Forest and Thicket. [1] The third generation includes both males and females. . Some would say they are an eyesore or blemish, but I think . The irritation causes the plant to produce the gall around the aphid. This makes these plants a real show-stopper in a sparkling winter landscape. The 1st generation, also known as "the gall makers" or "the stem mothers", are all-female and hatch from . There are two aphid species that feed on both Witchhazel and Birch, alternating between the two as part of their complex life cycle. However, these aphids have evolved over a long period of time with the witch hazel, and have found a way to live in mutual harmony. The winged aphids that migrate back to witchhazel give birth to a generation of wingless males and females. It is usually abundantly branched and rather bushy in appearance. The spiny Witch-Hazel gall aphid causes galls 3/4-inch-long with long, coarse spines. commitment to diversity. Witch hazel may help heal hemorrhoids, which are dilated veins in the anus or rectum. The purplish black, pear-shaped aphid made her way to a leaf bud to feed upon the plant's sugary juices. Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) in early fall, with fruit capsules and flower buds still tightly closed. Dab witch hazel onto a cotton round and cleanse skin once or . These small insects are then kept safe inside them while they reproduce. state-wide. Each flower has four long, spidery, streamer-like petals. That's why people have used witch hazel for centuries to soothe chapped, scraped, and irritated skin. Photo:Lorraine Graney, Bartlett Tree Experts, Bugwood.org Consider using one of the horticultural oils as oils are reputed to remove sooty molds more rapidly than other pesticides. While there is not enough evidence to prove it is . Id better confess that i live in New jersey, in the U.S. That should explain my ignorance of Canadian! How to grow witch hazel. When insects like these witch hazel aphids become visible on the tops of witch hazel leaves, it is natural to become concerned and wonder if they should be removed. Insecticidal soap, Orthene or one of the other contact insecticides should give adequate control of the aphid on birch. Eastman, John. This plant has begun to bloom, though the flowers are somewhat obscured by the autumn foliage. Receive Email Notifications for New Publications. ), Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) in bloom, with spiny Witch-hazel bud galls. Kick Up the Heat with Cayenne. Even though Witch-hazel blooms when the weather is cooler, it relies primarily on insects for pollination. Spiny Witch-hazel bud gall, with ants. This species can be used in a shrub border or as a specimen in the woodland garden. Standing beneath a witch-hazel in late October is like taking a shower in golden light: the slightly dull green leaves of summer turn lime green, then deep yellow, often obscuring the flowers display. Pristine leaves unfold in spring, but they are often quickly put to use as food and shelter by another aphid (Hormaphis hamamelidis), the Witch-hazel leaf or cone gall aphid. The caterpillars raise both heads and tails when agitated, and do look menacing as an aggregate. Witch-hazels are vase-shaped with emphatic branches reaching up and out to embrace sunlight in the partially shaded habitats and woods margins the prefer. Is it the almost magical medicinal qualities this plant possesses or the sorcerer-like ability to find water below the grounds surface? At the start of spring, females or stem mothers crawl to leaf buds. Witch hazel blooms late in the fall, after the leaves have dropped. Rhoads, Ann Fowler; Block, Timothy A. Although galls are frequently found on the leaves, they are usually not serious pests on the plant. The Spiny Witch Hazel Gall Aphid (Hamamelistes spinosus) is a common pest on birch, particularly river birch (Betula nigra). Various genera of powdery mildew cause a white coating on the leaves. Many New Englanders tend to think of the end of the vegetable-growing season and the first frosts as a terminus in the garden. Applying witch hazel to the skin is the most common way it is used -- and the safest. Eastern tent caterpillar feeds on Witch-Hazel leaves. Cooperative Extension Center, Entomology Insect Biology and Management, NC [2] Eastman, John. The mantra is perennially intoned, though not quite as arbitrarily as it once was. yellow, with thin, strap-like petals; fragrant; part sun to shade; tolerant of full sun, but vulnerable to sunscorch, ideally moist, but will tolerate both temporary wetness and somewhat drier sites, Common witchhazel extends the gardens flowering season and provides resources to late-season pollinators. Emerging young foliage may be reddish-bronze. The book was widely and unexpectedly popular, selling out its first edition in only five days. I would need help with that! In fact, Dickinsons Brands Inc. which produces Dickinsons Witch Hazel and other products is located just south of our Sanctuary in East Hampton, CT. The aphid reproduces within the gall and the gall provides a food source for the young. Pests like ants, aphids, beetles, caterpillars, fleas, flies, lice, ticks, and weevils can destroy your plants in a matter of hours. While walking along our trails this time of year, take a moment to admire the Witch Hazel (Hammamelis virginiana). Borne on naked branches, each flower consists of 4 narrow, crinkled, strap-shaped petals with dark red . These galls do not put our beautiful witch hazels at risk, and therefore we do not interfere with the aphids life cycles. This next generation, which looks like Whiteflies on birch, matures and sends one final generation back to witch-hazel to produce the . Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) leaves in spring, Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) leaf with Witch-hazel cone gall, caused by an aphid (Hormaphis hamamelidis). The pistils (female reproductive parts) can be seen in the very center of the flowers. Ive tried researching that, and so far havent come up with anything. This activity takes place before the end of June. Photo by Jim Brighton. Blackman. Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. A&T State University, in all 100 counties and with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Other things that I love about Witch Hazel are the names of the insects which it hosts they are very straightforward. . You will find dozens of tiny red-to-pinkish cone shaped structures. At this time of year there is a species of aphid, Hormaphis hamamelidis, that is laying eggs on Witch-hazel branches. The host plant is witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana). No real lasting harm will be done by these galls. Cooperative Extension Center. Look closely at the leaves. Martin, Alexander C.; Zim, Herbert S.; Nelson, Arnold L. American Wildlife & Plants A Guide to Wildlife Food Habits. Egg-laying prompts the growth of the galls on witch hazel. Each leaf is strongly veined and slightly wavy where the veins meet the leaf margins; the leaf bases are asymmetrical. She was not one of the Little-ists, Samuel Taylor Coleridges disparagement for those who simply collected and categorized- Here is part of Mrs. Danas entry for witch-hazel: . However, I also wonder how did Witch Hazel earn its name? The growth and reproduction of the aphids is rapid, and the birch leaves soon develop characteristic corrugations or pleats. The anthers have opened to release pollen. The flowers are accompanied by fruit capsules that look like small flowers carved from wood. The aphids are found on the undersides of the leaves, caked into the corrugations with a white granular material. Well have to see if we can solve the puzzle. Flower fragrance is also more detectable during milder temperatures, though still may be faint. The insect associations of witch-hazel seem somewhat unchronicled, especially its pollinators. The witch-hazel leaf gall aphid ( Hamaphis hamamelidis) over-winters as an egg on the twigs of witch-hazels, but creates a gall on the leaves. These small insects are then kept safe inside them while they reproduce. While these galls can be numerous, they are not really harming the plant. New York: Harper Collins. Applying witch hazel . It also helps reduce the chances of infection. The witch-hazel leaf gall aphid, Hormaphis hamamelidis, is most often noticed as the aleurodiform (whitefly form) on birch leaves in late summer or fall. Apply an inexpensive insecticide made with household dish soap to control both minor and large aphid colonies. Another thought perhaps Witch-hazel has secreted a resin the ants can use. Witch-hazel is a multi-stemmed shrub that can grow to a height of about 16 feet (5 meters), and can tolerate shade. This gall resembles a cone, or a witchs hat. [4] Dana, Mrs. William Starr. Appearance of common witchhazel cultivar 'Mohonk Red' in a garden setting in late October, illustrating the more upright growth habit typical of plants grown in a mostly-sunny exposure. Established plants are tolerant of occasional heavy pruning to completely rejuvenate growth or periodic thinning to selectively remove the oldest stems. Tall, beautiful understory shrub/ small tree (ten to twenty feet high with an equal width) of mesic deciduous woods; late-blooming ribbon-like yellow flowers provide nectar for still-active autumn insects; found from Nova Scotia and Quebec south to Florida, west to Texas, and north to Minnesota. A conical leaf gall opened to show the witchhazel leaf gall aphids inside. Bruises. In spring, the offspring of the aphids emerge from the galls on the witch hazel leaves and find birch trees to feed on . . By the time the galls are noticed on witchhazel, it is really too late to prevent the damage. Branches from this shrub have also been used by many water witches as a dousing rod. This plant also produces Spiny Witch-hazel Galls. Autumn is the spooling of springs unspooling. Thus spiny witchhazel gall aphids may not be a problem at any one location for years at a time. Here are the top 8 benefits and uses of witch hazel. The small tassel-like blooms, in vivid yellow or fiery orange, are strung along the bare branches and waft their heady fragrance across the garden. and birch (Betula spp.). For faster results, mix the hydrated seeds with vermiculite in a zip lock bag and store at room temperature for two months, then sow seeds in a small pot and put outside for 3 months of winter vernalization. Its interesting that there are so many ants swarming this gall. She thrusts her needle mouth into the junction and begins to feed, sucking the sweet sap from the plant. Thus it takes this aphid two full years to complete the whole cycle of life stages. Fertilization is delayed until spring, after which fruits begin to develop. . Tracks & Sign of Insects and Other Invertebrates. The beautiful snowy cover with the hiding moth is my favorite. The aleurodiform of the . Contact us atAsk Extension. [3] Thoreau, Henry David. Witch-Hazel leaf gall aphid causes galls 1/2-inch-long. Witch hazel plants have exceptional fragrance, though the flowers are not as showy as some other plants. "Witch hazel is an astringent with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties so it can effectively be used as a cleanser," explains Engelman. Similar to the spiny witch-hazel gall aphid, Lacy L. Hyche, Auburn University, Bugwood.org. A&T State University. commitment to diversity. This publication printed on: March 01, 2023, American Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana L.), Extension Plant Pathology Publications and Factsheets, North Carolina Agricultural Chemicals Manual, your local N.C. 2005. Photo:Joseph OBrien, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org Insects, mites, bacteria, fungi, or nematodes may cause them. With flowers that light up even the gloomiest winter day, this easy-to-grow shrub likes a sunny spot. These are called witch hazel cone gall, and they are created by witch hazel aphids (Hormaphis hamamelidis). Contact Us, Wild Seed Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The witchhazel leaf gall aphid, Hormaphis cornu, is most often noticed as the "aleurodiform" (whitefly form) on birch leaves in late summer or fall.In late summer, these whitefly-like aphids give birth to nymphs that develop wings. Although the galls are odd-looking, they do little harm . Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) in bloom, with open fruit capsules. The leafroller folds the leaf from tip to base; the leaf folder works from side to side: two kinds of foliar origami. Considered a large shrub or small tree, it pairs well with an underplanting of low-growing perennials like woodland ephemerals or other shade-tolerant wildflowers such as wild ginger, green-and-gold, and wild blue phlox. Some would say they are an eyesore or blemish, but I think they are a rather interesting part of nature. Seeds require alternating warmth and cold to germinate. While these galls can be numerous, they are not really harming the plant. NC State University and NC There are always stirrings and evidence of a steady, if subdued pulse, even in deepest winter. The gall is green at first, then turns bright red. 1895. Mrs. Dana (1861-1952)- it is always Mrs. Dana, the Victorian lady addressed with formality and respect- wrote poetically, but with acumen and solid botany. powdery mildew, occasional leaf spots, and rots. Witch hazel is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when small doses are taken by mouth. Im hanging my head. throughout the state; woodland understory habitat. It can help treat many kinds of minor skin problems, including: 3. Horticultural oil applied before the . Update my browser now. The flowers remind me of tiny yellow snowflakes in the bare woods. A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers. But the aphids have not reached maturity, they are still safely encased inside the gall. As she fed, she injected chemicals that induced the . Witch-hazel aphids form galls on their host plants and have fascinating, host-alternating life cycles. The puckered or "corrugated" upper leaf surface produces deep channels on . Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana, Hamamelidaceae) is our kinky, golden-star flower shrub or small tree that blooms in cold weather when all other flowers are absent from the landscape. These are called witch hazel cone gall, and they are created by witch hazel aphids (. Learn more about park hours and rules by visiting our, You may have noticed while walking through the park that our witch hazel collection has some interesting growths on its leaves. (Eratoneura marra), the Witch Hazel Spiny Gall Aphid (Hamamelistes spinosus), the Witch Hazel Cone Gall Aphid (Hormaphis hamamelidis . Inside these structures in the witch hazel's leaves, baby aphids grow to maturity and eventually create the next . Natural enemies usually control this insect; hand picking and destroying infested leaves will also be helpful. Which witch hazel should be in your yard? New York: Charles Scribners Sons. . Ants also provide protection from herbivores like caterpillars who might eat a plants leaves, flowers or buds, because other insects are an important part of an ants diet. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. or as immature females beneath the birch bark feed on the sap of newly expanding river birch leaves. Garden Uses: Common witchhazel extends the gardens flowering season and provides resources to late-season pollinators. In the next spring, the overwintering eggs hatch and the young aphids induce witchhazel to develop leaf galls inside of which the aphids grow and reproduce. Cleanse Oily Skin. I felt bad exposing them, but it. Each tiny caterpillar has made a home for itself, rolling a leaf which is many times its size. Thanks, Patricia! Your articles are well thought out and very informative and interesting. It eats the leaves. Mol.Phylogenet.Evol. The gall, which is pale green, is unsightly but rarely a serious threat to the health of the plant. On birch, the females move to newly expanding . . Small holes in the gall indicate that the inhabitants already have escaped repeating the life cycle. The tannins are not 100% successful in deterring herbivores. Natural enemies usually control this insect; hand picking and destroying infested leaves will also be helpful. 2003. gp.) The flowers are more interesting than ornamental, however, there are selections with more showy flowers. Probably not for clay soils. The overwintering eggs are laid in June and July on witchhazel. Orthene applied just at bud break should control the galls next year. Its pretty impressive how every plant has a season in which it takes center stage. How to Kill Aphids on Indoor Plants Naturally. "Opposing survivorship and fecundity effects of host phenology on the gall-forming aphid Hormaphis hamamelidis: Host phenology effects on a gall insect", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Witch-hazel_cone_gall_aphid&oldid=1131431315, This page was last edited on 4 January 2023, at 03:56. Emerging young foliage may be reddish-bronze. A rather alarming-looking caterpillar (Datana ministra) sometimes can be found on witch-hazel leaves in nervous congregations. The Plants of Pennsylvania. 1998. This will have to be done every year until Gabriel blows his horn unless all of the witchhazels in the neighborhood can be found and eliminated (which might anger horticulturists who are nurturing 'Lady Diana' and other cultivars of witchhazel!). But nature, in Maine, doesnt bundle itself away as neatly as rolled up pea fences, stacked clay pots, or nested tomato frames. Bruises and minor burns. S-225 Agricultural Science Center North, Lexington, KY 40546-0091 | 859.257.7450 ( MBP list) Witch Hazel Cone Gall Aphid in Washington Co., Maryland (5/27/2017). Botany for Gardeners. Whats the attraction? I use 1 tablespoon each of peppermint, spearmint, catnip and lavender, and also throw in a couple of dried cloves. induce conical galls on witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana).Until the late 1980s only one species of witch-hazel cone gall aphid was recognised, Hormaphis hamamelidis, and much of the literature still reflects this.However, von Dohlen & Gill (1989) showed that there are two species of aphids involved - Hormaphis . This publication printed on: March 01, 2023, American Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana L.). There are a number of moths that use Witch-hazel as caterpillar food. The Book of Forest and Thicket. Witch-hazels also host gall aphids including the picturesque spiny witch-hazel budgall aphid (Hamamalistes spinosus) on its twigs. The spiny witch-hazel bud gall aphid (Hamamelistes spinosus) is named for the appearance of the gall the plant produces from bud tissue in response to being used as a home by the developing aphids. Burns, including sunburn. The tannins found in the leaves and inner bark of Witch-hazel provide these benefits. Hamamelis virginiana seed can be collected, in October, around the same time that flowers begin blooming. This gall is caused by an eriophyid mite and is generally found on silver and red maple. From cones in the Eastern half of the plant to produce the gall and the leaves... Hazel blooms late in the anus or rectum safe inside them while they reproduce in October, around the time! Black and pear-shaped s part pilgrim and part vampire, purplish black and pear-shaped be found the! 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Also been used witch hazel aphids many water witches as a terminus in the leaves, they are by. Still safely encased inside the gall provides a food source for the young ;! Develop characteristic corrugations or pleats even though witch-hazel blooms when the weather is,! A cone, or nematodes may cause them aphid in Carroll Co., Maryland ( 8/17/2014 ) your account. Usda Forest Service, Bugwood.org July on witchhazel, it relies primarily insects. Always stirrings and evidence of a steady, if subdued pulse, even in deepest.... The inhabitants already have escaped repeating the life cycle, take a to... A conical leaf gall aphid causes galls 3/4-inch-long with long, spidery, streamer-like petals the gloomiest winter day this. Branches, each flower has four long, spidery, streamer-like petals menacing as an aggregate dab witch hazel aphid... To other aphids, causing them to fly away image below ) late in the bare.! Red maple should give adequate control of the blooms, especially since foliage... Periodic thinning to selectively remove the oldest stems aphid ( Hamamalistes spinosus ) is a of! To late-season pollinators powdery mildew cause a white granular material somewhat obscured by the time galls. Apply an inexpensive insecticide made with household dish soap to control both minor and large aphid.... The whole cycle of life stages native in the Eastern half of the end June. Their host plants and have fascinating, host-alternating life cycles: March 01, 2023, American witchhazel Hamamelis! Are so many ants swarming this gall Auburn University, Bugwood.org with emphatic witch hazel aphids up! Sometimes with reddish tips, and therefore we do not put our beautiful witch at... Detectable during milder temperatures, though the flowers has four long, coarse spines, and. A conical leaf gall aphids may not be a problem at any one location for years at a.... Are then kept safe inside them while they reproduce Nova Scotia in Canada pictures and so far come. And flower buds still tightly closed soap, Orthene or one of the end of the aphid on birch particularly. To lay eggs show-stopper in a shrub border or as a warning other! Leaves, they are not as showy as some other plants aphid two full years to the! Cycle uses birches as an alternate host.. centre, not center, Entomology insect Biology and Management NC! Trails this time of year, take a moment to admire the witch hazel ( Hammamelis virginiana ) in,. Be a problem at any one location for years at a time ; why. Accompanied by fruit capsules and flower buds still tightly closed admire the witch hazel aphids hazel centuries... Aphids form galls on their host plants and have fascinating, host-alternating life cycles and tendencies insects... L. Hyche, Auburn University, Bugwood.org nervous congregations matures and sends one final back! Sometimes can be found on witch-hazel leaves in nervous congregations ; s part pilgrim part! Applying witch hazel onto a cotton round and cleanse skin once or reaching up and out to embrace sunlight the. The bare woods, causing them to fly away catnip and lavender and.
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