HOST PLANT RESISTANCE TO THE GLASSY-WINGED SHARPSHOOTER IN GRAPES

• Author(s): Lu, Jiang; III, Russell;
• Abstract: been known for resistance to the Pierces disease (Lu 2000; Lu and Ren 2002), their resistant status against the glassywinged sharpshooter, Homalodisca coagulata (Say), GWSS, the vector transmitting Pierces disease (PD) pathogen (Xylella fastidiosa), have not been reported. It would be interesting to know if there is any correlation between resistance to the disease and resistance to the insect vector transmitting the disease. In addition, understanding the mechanism of host resistance to the GWSS, and the insect/plant interactions will add new dimension to control the insect vector in addition to the existed measures. In this connection, a study to survey the GWSS feeding preference on grapevines with different genetic background was conducted at Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida. Our preliminary study indicated that GWSS has feeding preference for certain grapevines. Since one recommendation to manage the GWSS is establishing riparian vegetation surrounding a vineyard, understanding the GWSS feeding habit on different grapes will also enable us to select resistant grape materials against GWSS. The long term goal of this project is to understand the mechanism of feeding preference (or host resistance) among resistant and susceptible grapevines, and the genetic basis of the host resistance to the GWSS.
• Publication Date: Dec 2002
• Journal: 2002 Pierce's Disease Research Symposium