Weld notes on each host that this gall was observed in the fall, but recent observations of galls matching this description have occurred as early as April and July. These may be distinct species or represent a longer development time than Weld was aware of; further observations may clarify the question.

Ants have been observed collecting early spring galls matching this morphotype. This is potentially the second instance of mymecochory, or ant-aided dispersal, known among North American cynipids, after Kokkocynips rileyi.

The gall has a short tuft of white hairs present only on the lower side, concealed by the bud scales until removed from the plant. This feature distinguishes it from Weld's Zapatella oblata, which he notes as lacking this feature.

Unpublished COI barcoding from the Forbes lab places this gall close to Zapatella quercusphellos.