GLASSY-WINGED SHARPSHOOTERS POPULATION DYNAMICS AS A TOOL FOR ERADICATING GLASSY-WINGED SHARPSHOOTER POPULATIONS

• Author(s): Coviella, Carlos; Luck, Robert; Andersen, Peter; Hoddle, Mark;
• Abstract: Unlike other insect pests, the glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS) threat is associated with its ability to vector a variety of Xylella fastidiosa strains, one of which causes PD in grapes. That GWSS feeds on xylem fluids is probably the reason why adult GWSS are able to feed on a remarkable range of host plant species: they avoid secondary plant compounds, and develop dense populations, particularly on several Citrus species. The insects high mobility contributes to the efficiency in vectoring X. fastidiosa. The insect is likely to establish generally in the State and transmit several forms of X. fastidiosa that affect other important perennial crops, e.g., almonds, olives, and stone fruits. These characteristics imply that to disrupt X. fastidiosa transmission and prevent X. fastidiosa epidemics, GWSS population densities need to be driven to be exceedingly scarce (Redak, 2001). Commonly accepted control measures, albeit useful in slowing the spread of such epidemics, are unlikely to drive GWSS densities low enough to completely disrupt transmission. This study will provide the information to determine whether it is possible to devise a control tactic and strategy along with its temporal and spatial scale that, when applied at the scarcest density of GWSS population i.e., its weakest point in the annual cycle, has the potential to eradicate local GWSS populations.
• Publication Date: Aug 2003
• Journal: 2003 Pierce's Disease Research Symposium