Monitoring psyllid vectors of apple proliferation in South Tyrol (Italy): a multi-year survey Fischnaller Stefanie*, Path Martin, Messner Manuel, Mitterrutzner Evi, Mittelberger Cecilia, Stocker Robert, Janik Katrin Laimburg Research Centre, Pfatten, Bolzano, Italy *Corresponding author e-mail: Stefanie Fischnaller (steffi.fischnaller@laimburg.it)
Online published on 25 July, 2019. Abstract Preventing the diffusion of phytoplasma associated diseases is based mainly on indirect control measures against the transmitting insect vectors. In order to survey the occurrence and infectivity of the apple proliferation vectors Cacopsylla picta and C. melanoneura an intensive monitoring program was realized in the apple growing region of South Tyrol. A constant decrease of population densities for both psyllid species was observed since 2015, partly correlated to the application of insecticides during the blooming phase. Percentages of about 21% of infected adults of C. picta indicate that this vector poses a high risk as a vector of the pathogen even at low densities. Top Keywords Apple proliferation, vector, Cacopsylla spp, infection rate, population dynamics. Top |