REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF FEMALE GLASSY-WINGED SHARPSHOOTERS: EFFECT OF HOST PLANT TYPE ON FECUNDITY AND DEVELOPMENT

• Author(s): Hummel, Natalie; Peng, Christine; Zalom, Frank; Toscano, Nick;
• Abstract: Our study found that Homalodisca coagulata can successfully produce multiple generations when confined to a single host species: grape, citrus, or oleander, and that oviposition and development can occur successfully on any of these hosts. In 2002, more egg masses and adults were found on citrus than on grape or oleander. In 2004, there was no significant difference in the number of egg masses on the hosts, but more adults were produced on grape, than on citrus or oleander. Our study confirms that oleanders can serve as a reproductive host for H. coagulata. Oviposition on oleander was different than on grape and citrus, with most eggs being laid singly or in pairs in the epidermis on the underside of leaves. Because citrus and oleanders are commonly found in close proximity both to one another and to grapes in California, it is important to consider their contribution as sources of H. coagulata as it relates to Pierces disease epidemiology.
• Publication Date: Dec 2005
• Journal: 2005 Pierce's Disease Research Symposium